Located in New York City's Theatre District and led by Principal Leah Dyer. The Professional Performing Arts School (PPAS) was founded in 1990 with a mission to develop, refine and showcase students in dance, drama, vocal and musical theater majors while providing meaningful academic curriculum. Every incoming high school student auditions for a performing arts major as part of the DOE application process. Incoming middle school students also audition but do not select a major as their focus encompasses all areas. Performing arts instruction is provided by professional artists through studios and partnerships. Academic faculty give students opportunities for daily study through a rigorous, comprehensive, sequential, fully integrated curriculum. The course of study, ending in a New York State Regents-endorsed high school diploma, is centered around an interdisciplinary, multicultural, inquiry-based learning approach which prepares students for college and/or a professional career in the arts.
