According to the Christian Schools and Kindergartens website, the United States contains more than 30,000 Christian schools. Some of these schools have a performing arts focus that allows students to express themselves artistically. Along with academics, courses in theater, dance, media and music -- the primary areas of concentration offered at most performing arts schools -- educate students on all aspects of the craft. For example, theater students may study theater history, stage movement, costume design and technical theater, along with basic acting techniques.
Some schools require students to choose a major or area of study as part of the enrollment process. For example, the Dozier School of the Performing Arts, a school-within-a-school at Mount Paran Christian School, in Kennesaw, Georgia, has such a requirement, but students also study other performing arts subject areas during their time with the program.
Christian schools vary in terms of beliefs and teaching styles. Some schools require that students and families sign a statement of faith, which may cause a conflict if, for example, a Protestant student enrolls in a Roman Catholic school. Parents should research the success of both the academic and artistic programs by contacting the school and finding out the percentage of students who graduate annually. Getting feedback from alumni and asking how they have used their education to further their careers also helps parents make an informed decision.
Unlike public schools, where the state finances the bulk of the budget, Christian schools require tuition for students to matriculate. Most performing arts schools base acceptance on student auditions, due to the competitive nature of such programs. Once it approves a student for admission, a school may waive or reduce tuition fees for qualified applicants, depending on available financial aid and the students' scholastic achievements.
Education Bug encourages parents to research a school's accreditation status before enrollment. For U.S. schools, parents should with the department of education for their state and, for high schools, the national regional accreditation commission for their geographic region. Other factors to consider when choosing a Christian performing arts school include location, the use of uniforms, safety statistics and standardized test scores. Many parents and students begin their search for the right school by determining their values and researching schools that fit within their criteria.