Striving for excellence? Communication Arts High School is where many students achieve it. Founded in 1995, Communication Arts High School is a magnet school within the Northside Independent School District. It shares a campus with William Howard Taft High School. But it is more than just a school.
Communication Arts High School is a launchpad for future innovators. Its focus is on multimedia and communications skills. The school consistently ranks among the top high schools in the nation.
In 2010, Newsweek ranked Communication Arts High School 19th in the nation. The Washington Post has recognized it as one of the top 100 most challenging high schools. This recognition speaks volumes about the school’s commitment to academic rigor.
Admission to Communication Arts High School is open to Bexar County students. Applicants previously submitted an essay or video, but the process has since changed. Now, eligible applicants enter a lottery system. Each year, the school accepts around 130 freshmen.
The curriculum emphasizes communication skills. Students must complete at least three credits of Spanish or American Sign Language. They also take Advanced Broadcast Journalism, Audio/Video Production, or Animation courses.
The school also emphasizes college preparation. Freshmen and juniors take the PSAT on campus annually. Sophomores are encouraged to take it as well. Students take Advanced Placement and Advanced courses. Standard curriculum students usually graduate with Distinguished Achievement Diplomas.
Students participate in electives like fine arts and athletics with Taft students. A Communication Arts student needs at least 26 or 27 credits to graduate.
Student organizations operate independently. They include the National Honor Society and Student Council. There is also an Environment Club and Photography Club. Students can join the Creative Writing Club and Spanish National Honor Society. An E-Sports club and Film Club provide more options. All organizations have faculty sponsors.
Annual events foster a strong community. Grassroots showcases student musical talent. Turkeyfest and Earth Day raise funds for student organizations.
Communication Arts High School also fosters student publications. Weekly video announcements keep the community informed. The Advanced Video Technology class produces an annual recruitment video. Students create the Unity yearbook and La Communidad, a Spanish e-paper.
Even bats have made their mark on Communication Arts High School. In 2019, Mexican free-tailed bats infested the building. Classes were held in Taft until animal control removed them.
Communication Arts High School is more than just a school building. It is a place of learning and growth. The teachers help shape young minds. They prepare students for a bright future.