The Arts

Sky Islands knows that there are many different ways to express intelligence, and that developing the right brain is just as important as developing the left. We believe that developing skills in creative expression and creative thinking is just as important as developing skills in literacy, science, or math. For that reason, we feature full art programs for high school students that spans a variety of different mediums, including 2D/ visual arts, graphic arts, ceramics, culinary arts, and photography.

At Sky Islands, we aim to develop the whole person, and know that a good curriculum teaches more than just how to pass a test or find ‘the right answer’.

Visual Arts

This course serves as an introduction to art materials and concepts. Students will use a variety of media, including drawing, painting, printmaking and clay, to represent the natural world around them, as well as their own ideas and imaginings.

Basic principles and techniques in two + three-dimensional art and design; develop skills in the critical analysis of art using a range of artistic media. Concepts addressed include formal composition, the creative expression of ideas through visual form and the relationship between visual expression and contemporary culture. 

The photography class offers students a unique opportunity to delve into the art of film photography. With a limited number of students, each one receives personalized instruction on the intricacies of using a manual camera, developing film, and printing photographs in a darkroom. The hands-on experience fosters a deep appreciation for the traditional processes and the patience required in this digital age. Students learn to see the world through a different lens, capturing moments with intentionality and skill. This intimate setting not only cultivates their technical abilities but also encourages creative expression and artistic growth.

Performance Arts

Drama courses are designed to enhance students’ understanding of life through the study and performance of dramatic works. Students will develop their ability to express themselves through playwriting activities, studying playwrights and different types of theatrical techniques and traditions. Students are expected to write original scenes and /or one-act plays that will be reviewed and performed by local actors. 

Culinary Arts

The ecological farm-to-kitchen culinary program at Sky Islands high school focuses on the diverse food cultures from the Southwest and around the world, supplied by the school gardens and local vendors. Students in culinary arts learn all the basic skills of operating and running a kitchen, including knife skills, cooking techniques, recipes, and teamwork, as well as serve the school lunches. 

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Testimonials

Klairisa
KlairisaAlumni
Sky Islands is amazing because the curriculum is unlike anywhere else. It is a community that is always changing, and everyone is friendly. The teachers here are the best teachers I have had in my entire student career. I now look at the world differently than others.
Hannah
HannahAlumni
I feel that the school’s messages they communicate to the students are really eye-opening, from the food we eat to the advertisements shaping us, and that we as a community can change this. I’m happy to know I’m graduating as an individual rather than a teenager clone, which would be the case at other schools.
Cortez
CortezAlumni
When I first came to Sky Islands, I felt it was kind of weird because I wasn’t used to the whole idea of a school being a community, but more and more I came to the realization that this is how school should be.
Emma
EmmaAlumni
Community is a huge part of Sky Islands. This school has amazing teachers, they are all fantastic, and they have taught me so much. I used to hate math more than anything because I never understood it. Now it is my favorite subject.
Luciana
LucianaAlumni
Sky Islands is a great place to be! Everyone is welcoming and everybody knows each other at our school. Throughout the year, we work on projects in and outside the classroom. We also learn about so many interesting topics that you don't learn about at other public schools.
Sky Islands Parent
Sky Islands ParentParent
My daughter graduated from Sky Islands in 2020. She studied there for 4 years of High School and it was the best decision we ever made. The curriculum there allowed her to broadened her mind and approach to more greenery and sciences. She started out very shy and and introvert and graduated more outgoing and she really bloomed at High School there. I would always refer my friends to have their students attend high school for the simple fact that they will get the education needed to go to college plus special treatment and care for each and every student.

Schedule A Campus Tour

We would love to have you visit our campus for a tour so you can experience how special Sky Islands really is. Please leave your email below and we will coordinate a time and date for your tour.