Our Mission
Transforming Education
Our mission is to foster independent thinking in a creative and challenging environment, by providing a diversified curriculum with an evolving and innovative framework of high standards in arts-integrated teaching and learning. We commit ourselves to helping children become thoughtful, engaged citizens in a global society, prepared for participation in the world beyond our school.
Our Story
Since 1981, the Children’s Creative and Performing Arts Academy has proudly served families across San Diego by offering a one-of-a-kind educational experience that blends academic excellence with artistic exploration.
Located in the heart of North Park, our private K–12 academy has helped generations of students thrive through a curriculum that integrates rigorous academics with music, dance, visual arts, and theater. Whether your child is bound for college, the stage, or both — we empower them to grow intellectually, creatively, and confidently.
Families from La Mesa, Mission Valley, City Heights, and across San Diego choose CCPAA for our small class sizes, passionate teachers, and inspiring learning environment. We strive to ignite the imagination, foster critical thinking, and cultivate a lifelong love for learning and creativity in our students.
National Recognitions
We are proud to be recognized as one of the Top 5 K-12 schools in San Diego, the #1 most diverse private high school in the San Diego area, as well as the #16 most diverse private high school nationwide. Our commitment to excellence is further highlighted by our status as a Platinum school on the 2024 AP School Honor Roll and being a recipient of the AP Access Award, which recognizes schools whose AP programs are maximizing college readiness, and reflects our dedication to providing equitable access to advanced coursework for all students.