School of the Arts

The York County School of the Arts (SOA) provides high school students with a fine arts training opportunity in literary arts, theatre arts, technical theatre, dance arts, and music. Cross-curricular learning experiences encourage students to compose advanced writing, prepare performances, and create exhibitions that display their appreciation of the arts, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, increase resilience, and enhance self-esteem. In this rigorous program, students embrace a professional work ethic, discipline, and training for future careers in the arts and humanities, while enhancing leadership and collaborative skills applicable to all career paths. SOA engages students in numerous and diverse art forms and encourages them to become lifelong learners and patrons of the arts.

For additional information, please contact:

York County School of the Arts
185 East Rochambeau Drive
Williamsburg, Virginia 23188
(757) 220-4095 • FAX (855) 512-6930
lmaney@ycsd.york.va.us

How do I apply?

Click on the "Audition Information" link on the left side bar of this webpage. There, you'll find detailed instructions, the dates for the application deadline, a link for the electronic application. and be able to access the Teacher Recommendation Form to be sent to your teachers. An individual application must be submitted for each student (grades 8-11) wishing to attend School of the Arts. Eligible students are accepted into SOA based on grades, teacher recommendations, a reading comprehension test, interview, and audition.

Who's eligible?

York County students going into grades 9-12 who have an interest in the arts. Students must apply and audition to attend. Students from other school divisions may pay tuition to attend York County Schools. Students must maintain a 2.5 GPA and a minimum of a C in their SOA class in order to remain in the program.

How does transportation to/from SOA work?

Starting with the 2025-26 school year, the SOA program will run in the afternoon only, during 3rd and 4th block at Bruton High School (BHS).Transportation to SOA will be provided during what would be students' lunch block. Students will eat on the bus on their way to BHS, or they can get food in the BHS lunchroom and eat in their SOA classroom. At the end of the school day, students who do not drive themselves will be taken by bus to the appropriate middle school for bus transportation home.

Parents are responsible for transportation to and from SOA for any after school activities.

Can I attend if I don't live in York County?

Students who live outside of York County must pay the York County School Division tuition to attend a York County high school in order to attend SOA. Tuition information can be found on the York County School Division website FAQs.