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Arts Academy in the Woods in Warren, Michigan

Arts Academy in the Woods Detail

(586) 294-0391
32101 Caroline
Fraser, MI 48026
Levels: 9-12
District: Arts Academy in the Woods


Arts Academy in the Woods Census Data

Census InfoValueYear
Percent Free and Reduced Price Lunch:8.65% (2008)
White, non-Hispanic:54.76% (2008)
Black, non-Hispanic:39.77% (2008)
Hispanic:2.02% (2008)
American Indian/Alaskan Native:0% (2008)
Multiracial:2.88% (2008)
Asian:0% (2008)
Hawaiian:0.58% (2008)
Student Teacher Ratio:15.69% (2008)

Arts Academy in the Woods Ratings Summary

Average Quality Rating4
Average Principals Rating4
Average Teachers Rating4
Average Activities Rating4
Average Parents Rating4
Average Safety Rating4

Arts Academy in the Woods Reviews

Quality Score: 1
Post Date:2010-04-22
“Lack of honor classes, and lack of instrumental music and drama are the major areas of concern as a parent. The safety of this school is another area that needs improvement. A clear concise policy needs to be adhered and established. Nice kids at the school however they deserve more challenging academics.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 1
Post Date:2010-04-21
“I am a parent of a Junior who's child will attend another school next year for many concerns about AAW. The safety issue and lack of plans in place to deal with issues that have occured this year and the lack of staff and arts with instrumental and theatre gone as well as a solid guitar program in place the school lacks direction and the adminstration to support it. Academics are not stressed and a guidance support staff is not helpful nor do they return calls.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2010-04-16
“I have put both of my children in AAW and now my sister's children will be going there. I would recommend this school to anyone whose child would benefit from an atmosphere where everyone knows them. I love it that every teacher knows my children's names and so many other students say 'Hi' to me when I'm in the building. With fewer than 300 students, AAW has a real 'community' instead of the cookie-cutter mentality of a huge school.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2009-12-14
“This is a great school and the teachers are wonderful. More parents need to look into this school for their kids it is unique and the greatest thing is that you don't just have to show up and no kids are left behind and the mentality is not to just pass students onto the next grade and where it's not all about the funding..... Check it out!!”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 2
Post Date:2009-08-09
“I'm going to try to be as honest and unbiased as I can in this review, but as much as I enjoyed my time spent at AAW I don't think the academics were very up to speed. I can't speak personally about all the art programs, but the 2D and 3D departments weren't very strong when I attended. It's my understanding that if you are interested in dance or guitar it's a great school, but the visual art is weak. I also feel as though there weren't enough electives and extra-curricular activities. I will say though, I can't imagine a better creative writing program and I hope in the future students can use it as a major. Also the students are generally easy to get along with and very accepting. It's guaranteed you can feel comfortable and find friends there.”
This review was posted by a student.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-05-19
“I graduated from AAW in 2008, AAW was and still is an excellent school for any kid to express themselves. i have learned so much in the Arts as well as in academics. I'm now at Wayne State majoring in Psychology and minoring in Photo Journalism.”
This review was posted by a student.
Quality Score: 4
Post Date:2009-05-19
“Arts Academy is a wonderful school. The classes are fun and the teachers are great. While you succeed in academic work you also strive in a performing art - just for you! Teachers work well with one on one and are there because they love the students, not because its a job.”
This review was posted by a other.
Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2009-05-19
“I was a part of AAW's first graduating class back in 2005. I found my experience to be very rewarding and felt prepared to enter the big wide world of college. But AAW isn't for everyone. You will only get what you want out of the experience. No one is going to hold your hand, only you can make your self successful.”
This review was posted by a student.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-05-18
“I'm 1 of the class of 2008 A.A.W. really gave me a boost in life that other high schools couldn't, but that's just me. I loved the time I spent there.”
This review was posted by a other.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-05-18
“Although Arts Academy is still in it's developing stages, the education I received at Arts Academy prepared me well for college. Individual attention from teachers helped develop me into a come confident student. Now, a Junior in college, I am entering my senior year with a 3.78 GPA, something I would have never imagined obtaining when I entered Arts Academy.”
This review was posted by a other.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-05-18
“I am an Alumni of this school (05) and I can honestly say it changed my life. I can't imagine being the same person I am without having attended this amazing school. It opened my eyes to diversity and acceptance. Besides that, I was able to do what I loved (ballet and acting) in a supportive enviroment. This enviroment offered a variety of performing oppurtunities including (but certainly not limited to) the Degas Art opening at the DIA and September 11th rememberance ceremonies (2002). The small classes allowed me more individual attention which enabled me to excel academically. In turn I was offered great scholarships (theatre and academic) for college. I just graduated cum laude from Adrian College with a Degree in Psychology and Theatre, and feel blessed to have attended such a great highschool. Arts Academy taught me to always strive for excellence.”
This review was posted by a other.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-05-18
“I was fortunate enough to be part of the first graduating class at AWW in 2005. I spent all four years of high school there and they were the best years. You could definitely see the staff and faculty were very passionate about what they taught us and the students were very passionate about their art subjects.”
This review was posted by a other.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-05-18
“I'm an alum. As far as high school experiences go, it's second to none.”
This review was posted by a other.
Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2009-03-30
“As a parent of an AAW student, I have to agree with the positive comments about the administration, student and programs at the Arts Academy in the Woods. It is refreshing to see teachers that truly care about the students and go out of their way to help them succeed. The principal is fantastic and the support of Mr. Walker in getting the word out about the school is above and beyond. This school has made a positive difference in my child's life by boosting self esteem and a sense of pride in effort. Thank you for being there for us.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-03-25
“I have to respond to the email below where a parent claims our school is unsafe. The parent gives no reason for this claim, and that's because our school has very few problems involving safety or even conflict among the students. Meanwhile, Mr. Walker has come out of retirement to support and work with (and for) the new principal. I don't know what axe that person is grinding, but those statements are not realistic. AAW is a wonderful school.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-03-22
“I recently attended an event at AAW where they turned their gymnasium into a 'nightclub' featuring a complete dinner served at beautifully set tables and a comedy show performed by the Drama department. The students performed a three act play while the 'Lounge Cats' ( a jazz band) performed between acts. The servers were also drama students all dressed up to look like actors/actresses from Hollywood. Well done to the Drama department!!!! You can not find another type of performance like this at any other high school in Southeastern Michigan!!!”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-03-22
“This school has helped me grow so much,I love it so much. Everything about this school is amazing.”
This review was posted by a student.
Quality Score: 1
Post Date:2009-03-19
“the teachers & support staff are truly amazing, the new principal is not! It saddens me greatly watching him destroy what Mr. Walker diligently built. Our first years at AAW were filled with pride. Now I'm concerned with my child's safety on a daily basis not to mention his self esteam.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-03-18
“This school has changed my life. I was isolated and ostracized throughout elementary and middle school, and I needed somewhere else to go. When I found Arts Academy, it was too good to be true. The students are the most accepting and open minded I've ever encountered. Not everyone is an 'artist' but everyone has that creativity in common, the thoughts and feelings of an artistic community. We're teenagers, so there's some cliquing, but at AAW the best thing you can be is yourself. Somehow, someway, you'll find your place, you'll find yourself, really. And you're not kept from doing that, ever. AAW is unique. It's an experience you could never have anywhere else. Joining in on a rousing rendition of the Friends theme song in the hallway at lunch my first week, that's my favorite memory. You couldn't have that anywhere else.”
This review was posted by a student.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-03-06
“My kid got a 30 on his ACTs after attending four years of Arts Academy! It is the best high school ever!!”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-02-12
“I'm currently a student at AAW and have loved every minute of my high school years there! The school is small which makes it easier for students to develop relationships with eachother and their teachers, as well as getting help from them. There are a variety of arts classes and the teachers are all very talented. I love that everyone is able to express themselves here, teachers included, without feeling ostracized. AAW is still developing and growing but with the help of the student body, parents, and our new principal I'm positive it'll go far!”
This review was posted by a student.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2009-01-08
“My daughter, currently, is in 11th grade here and my son graduated last year. I couldn't recommend this school enough. The art teachers are fantastic here and the basic curriculum is wonderful. The staff are more than willing to help where they can. They have done so much for both my children in pushing them in the right directions for their future.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2008-12-01
“My daughter started AAW in January of this year- she had attended a much larger local high school and felt pretty lost within the huge enrollment there. At AAW? - quite a difference for her- the kids there all know one another- on her first day, many kids came up and asked her if she needed any help finding her classes, etc- she was amazed by their kindness. Academically, she is excelling- the classrooms are much smaller, and there is greater emphasis on each student. There are arts assemblies each Friday, where the students showcase their talents- each student has a chance to be acknowledged and appreciated. As a parent, I KNOW we made a great choice for our daughter- she really looks forward to going to school each day!”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 4
Post Date:2008-10-14
“My son has attended AAW for 3 years. This year so far is off to a great start. They have a new principal that has brought alot of fresh new ideas to the school. The parents association along with students worked around the school painting and cleaning up the grounds ouside. There were also several appearances of AAW students supporting the school over the summer and concerts and festivals. There are several activities in the works for this school year. It is a school to be proud of.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2008-10-12
“Teachers are amazing. I've never gotten as many A's as I have at AAW. They really know how to push you in the right direction. I can tell you that Arts Acad really makes me work hard and I love it. The new principle is amazing, I'm happier now knowing that we have a much more structured school. I'm also digging this new lunch program. Cheap and healthy foods. More extracuricular activities. AAW has come a long way since last year”
This review was posted by a student.
Quality Score: 4
Post Date:2008-08-21
“This is such a great school. I highly recommend it for anyone in the arts industry.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 3
Post Date:2008-08-19
“My child somewhat enjoyed AAW. As a parent I found that about half of the teachers did not return my phone calls for request for conferences and checks to see how my child was doing. Most prefer email contact but never seem to answer them. My child struggled in math so we sent him to sylvan learning center which helped alot, but the 2 math teachers he had did not seem to be the best and never let you know how things are going unless you hunt them down. When report cards and progress reports came, then you knew, when it's almost to late. How about lets keep contact often.....teachers please learn this and not just do it for your favorite students.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 2
Post Date:2008-06-02
“My child moderately enjoyed AAW. However, as a parent I found the administration and counseling departments unresponsive, and about half of the teachers did not return my phone calls for request for conferences. Having thoroughly researched the available high schools prior to choosing AAW, I am disappointed with the school and its current administration. Because of this, we are choosing not to return.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2008-01-21
“My son is a second year student at AAW and I am very pleased with his progress. As a parent, if your child is creative in the arts and seems to 'not fit in' with the public or private school environment, I highly recommend AAW. Because it is an Art school, it may seem that more attention is focused on the art than academics but I can assure you that academics are just as important to the AAW administration. A great majority of the faculty is also artistic and creative so the academics have artistic flair which makes it an enjoyable learning experience. If you're also artistic as a parent, you will know how important it is that your child be in an environment that not only supports creativity & the arts but also nurtures it encourages growth in that art. It's a great school and I'm proud to be part.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2007-12-19
“I am a 2nd year student at Arts Academy in the Woods, and I couldn't be more proud. AAW may have it's ups and downs, but it is definitely one of a kind. It took me a great deal of time to appriciate it's diversity. I orginally wanted to leave the school after semester one of freshman year, because I didn't feel I fit in; sophmore year, I now know I wouldn't fit in better anywhere else. The teachers are amazing, and truly care about the well-being of the students. The students that really do care have amazing talent, and will go far thanks to their arts. As far as getting no homework concerns, that doesn't mean that the academics aren't challenging. I get homework almost everyday, but find time to finish it in school. AAW is a wonderful place to be. I wouldn't ask for anything more.”
This review was posted by a student.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2007-12-13
“The longer we are at the school the more we grow to appreciate its diversity and mutual respect the students have for each others talents. It is not that they are all friends but they have grown too appreciate and value what each has to offer like a family. The school has Friday assemblies a couple times a month and that is how the students get to showcase their talents and show their appreciation to each other. I am just so glad I have found this school for my family.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2007-12-09
“I am a proud teacher at AAW. To the parent who posted on 11-29, please talk to your daughter's teachers re:lack of homework. I give homework at least 3 nights per week and this does not include the work required on special projects and study for exams. We also had several advance and Honors classes and the opportunity gifted students to be assigned more challenging work. To the parent who questioned the background and training of our arts staff, I'd ask that you be more specific. As I survey my colleagues I know that many of them were accomplished professionals in their field before they began teaching. (See artsacademy-woods. net). Students under their guidance have won awards and college scholarships in orchestral and vocal music, guitar, 2-D art and dance. We teachers greatly value students who want to achieve academically; please give us specific feedback so that we can improve.”
This review was posted by a teacher.
Quality Score: 3
Post Date:2007-11-29
“This my daughters first year. Initially she was excited about the experience. She loves the creative aspect. However the schools academics are not challenging. That is a huge dissapointment. I hate to change schools again. However I'm sure she won't return next year.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 3
Post Date:2007-11-27
“I thought it would be more academically challenging. They don't have AP classes ... and my children don't get homework. But they are happy and engaged and safe. That counts.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2007-09-24
“Great school. Should be some kind a fun activities for the kids though, especially for senior year.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 3
Post Date:2007-06-28
“This school is a wonderful place for students to be themselves. It has great staff and some less than great staff just like any school. What can't be beat is the individual attention the kids get and the exposure to many different cultures. It is a wonderful and safe place to learn.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2007-06-18
“Thank God we found this school! My daughter found her niche and is motivated to be successful. The focus may be on the arts, but she now wants to become a statistician as a result of her math and science classes. She's eager to participate in the Model United Nations program (available to Juniors & Seniors). She is also exited by new collaborative work between the English department and Dance. I love the diversity of the student body and the respect & encouragement the students have for each other. It's a warm & friendly environment.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 3
Post Date:2007-06-08
“My daughter attends AAW and is fitting in well. The school has worked hard to overcome some difficulty and is still improving. It takes all of the parents, teachers, administrators, and the students to create a great school. AAW has the potential to be that school and is currently above many in academic curriculum. Although it may seem to lack the 'polish' of a more established school, this has no bearing on its foundation which I believe is strong. Since moving into our own building this year some promising changes are in the works. If someone isn't getting what the think they need-maybe we should ask them what they are contributing!! Come take a look for yourself. -second year parent.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 1
Post Date:2007-03-06
“This school is a joke. Three principals from September to December 2006. We were convinced by a great presentation. None of what was promised is true. The academics are poor, there are only a handful of good teachers, hard working and dedicated. No one has answers. No library. No hot lunch. Why did the children have to audition and take a test? None of the results are taken into consideration when scheduling the students. Disciplinary actions taken arbitrarily and the students know this, there are a host of behavior problems. The good students, hard working ones, ones really good at their craft, are leaving. What's left? Do yourself a favor and don t send your kid there.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 2
Post Date:2006-09-02
“Hello, my daughter started her freshman year at Arts Academy in the Woods in fall 2003. In my opinion, I wish I had never sent her there. It was her decision as well, but there are things concerning that school that I am not proud of. The school is a regular school as well, but it chooses not to exert a strong emphasis on academics, something these students need nowadays. Not many of those students are going to grow up and become professional dancers and musicians. Well, anything is possible, but I strongly doubt it, if you know what I mean. If you have a smart child, such as my daughter, you should be wise enough and think twice about sending him/her there. He/she is probably way too smart for that.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 3
Post Date:2006-07-31
“I went to AAW for 2 years I'll tell you right now if you find AAW a good school you must be joking. The doesn't really focus on the academics as much as the arts.”
This review was posted by a student.
Quality Score: 1
Post Date:2006-05-24
“I am a student at AAW. After hearing so many good things about this school, I decided to try it out. I know wish I hadn't! The school focuses on the arts but most of the art classes are taught by teachers who have no experience with that art. The school features a horrible academic program, thus I've learned absoletly NOTHING my whole year here. I was a complete waste of a year of my life, and I can never get that time back. I wish I never heard of this place. I highly recommend parents to not send their children to AAW. Please, you have been warned.”
This review was posted by a student.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2006-04-28
“I am a student at AAW, and this school has changed my life drastically. It offers more opportunities for most students. If you have an interest, you're encouraged to pursue it. The teachers are supportive and care a great deal about their students. They're truly heroes here. When the state had its budget crisis, our teachers took pay cuts and still stayed at the school with the same amount of hours as before. The students are friendly, helpful, and very accepting of diversity. The arts and academic classes are very strong. I would encourage any artist or someone who has been picked on for being 'weird' to come and tour AAW. You'll be glad you did.”
This review was posted by a student.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2006-02-27
“What a fantastic school! The staff is great (mostly). The kids are exposed to the beauty of the arts and all that comes with it! I thank god every day that we found AAW. My son calls it 'Nirvana' and it is a perfect fit for kids that are so creative and intelligent, and they are recognized for it! Great school!”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2005-06-06
“Wonderful school! Special education teacher is awsome she gives all of her students lots of one on one. The academics, arts and music at this school are unique and offer the students much to learn and do. The staff really care about their students at Arts Academy. My son is a recent graduate of this school and I would highly recommend Arts Academy in the Woods to future students.”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: 5
Post Date:2005-03-12
“Outstanding school/teachers! Small class sizes, challenging college prep courses, lots of attention from dedicated teachers and staff. Experienced new principal 2004-05 has implemented additional policies to promote learning. Academic teachers tend to have an arts interest/background which adds to overall learning environment. Active parent group gives added support to staff and activities. Parents required to volunteer 20 hours per year. Students have performed across the US, and are often the ONLY high school invited to various functions. Instrumental music dept is growing, emphasis on accuracy (chamber music) & quality performances. Visual art (drawing/painting) has a higher caliber student than most area schools. Dance is off the charts! Vocal music will blow you away! Problems with drugs/gangs are substantially fewer than area schools! Kids don't have time to get into trouble because they're so active in their arts! Really nice kids! I would highly recommend this school to any student interested in the arts!”
This review was posted by a parent.
Quality Score: N/A
Post Date:2004-06-12
“The school has had 3 principals for the 2003-2004 school year. Parents trying to obtain financial information (i.e. past budgets) have not been given that information. The unelected Board has had a large number of 'closed meetings' No African Americans are represented on the Board. Finally, an African-American was appointed interim principal. Despite the preceeding, AAW has many excellent teachers. I hope they stay.”
This review was posted by a parent.

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