Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts

- 239 Cold Spring Rd, Syosset, NY 11791

For high school students on Long Island who dream of a future in the arts, the Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts (LIHSA) is a transformative educational experience unlike any other. This is not a typical high school; it is a specialized arts training program that allows students to dedicate half of their school day to their creative passion while continuing their academic studies at their home district. As one parent enthusiastically described, walking through the halls is like stepping into a real-life version of the TV show, FAME, where "the energy and creativity in the building are incredible." LIHSA is a place where students are surrounded by peers and mentors who share their passion, creating a supportive community where they can truly thrive. It’s a hidden gem for students who are serious about pursuing a career in the arts, providing an environment that nurtures talent, builds confidence, and prepares them for success in college and beyond.

LIHSA's mission goes far beyond just technical training. It is a safe haven where students feel "seen, supported, and celebrated for who they are." This is a crucial distinction, especially for young artists who may not have found their place in a traditional school setting. The school's nurturing environment fosters not only artistic growth but personal growth as well, helping students become more confident and well-rounded individuals. The staff and administrators are described as "the most supportive and knowledgeable," and they are instrumental in creating a family-like atmosphere where students can feel comfortable taking risks and pushing their creative boundaries. This strong sense of community is a significant factor in the school's success and is consistently praised by both students and parents.

The programs at LIHSA are taught by a dedicated team of instructors who are accomplished artists and performers in their own right, bringing real-world expertise to the classroom. This master-apprentice model gives students an unparalleled opportunity to learn from and be mentored by professionals who are actively working in the industry. The specialized training, combined with practical skills like branding and money management, gives students a huge advantage when they enter college or the workforce. It’s a comprehensive approach that prepares students not just creatively, but also professionally and academically, setting them up for a future where they can truly succeed.

Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts is located at 239 Cold Spring Rd, Syosset, NY 11791. Situated on a 4.5-acre campus, the school provides a dedicated and inspiring space for artistic learning. The location is easily accessible for students from both Nassau and Suffolk counties, as it is a half-day program that requires students to be transported from their home school district. The school's partnership with Nassau BOCES facilitates this arrangement, with bussing often handled by the home district. For students with a valid NYS driver's license, the school also offers student parking permits.

The campus itself is designed to meet the unique needs of an arts high school. It features over 38,000 square feet of professional workspaces, including four dance studios, a 350-seat theatre with professional lighting and sound equipment, and multiple black box theatres. There are also specialized studios for fine arts, film editing rooms, a darkroom, an audio-recording studio, and a carpentry shop for scenic design. This extensive array of facilities ensures that students have access to industry-standard equipment and spaces to create, rehearse, and perform. Accessibility is also a key feature, with a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and seating, making the campus welcoming to all. Additionally, both free street parking and a free on-site parking lot are available, providing convenience for visitors and staff.

Services Offered:

• A wide variety of artistic programs, including 3D Animation, Character Design, Film Production, Musical Theatre, and Sound Engineering.
• Advanced classes and training in specific art disciplines like Figure Drawing, Jazz, and Ballet.
• On-site services and a master-apprentice learning model.
• Comprehensive arts training for students who are "good for kids," focusing on personal and creative growth.
• Continuing Education and Teacher Training programs for professionals in the field.
• Rigorous coursework aligned with professional industry standards.

Features / Highlights:

• A transformative environment that inspires and nurtures passionate young artists.
• Taught by a supportive and knowledgeable staff of accomplished artists and performers.
• Extensive, state-of-the-art facilities including professional studios, theaters, and a carpentry shop.
• A strong sense of community that feels like a family, providing a safe and supportive haven for students.
• Wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and seating, ensuring inclusivity.
• Free on-site parking and free street parking for convenience.
• Programs that not only improve artistic skills but also build confidence, discipline, and practical life skills like money management.

Contact Information:

Address: 239 Cold Spring Rd, Syosset, NY 11791, USA

Phone: (516) 622-5678

What is worth choosing Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts?

For parents and students on Long Island who are looking for a specialized and deeply enriching educational experience, Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts (LIHSA) is a truly exceptional choice. The most compelling reason to choose this school is the profound impact it has on its students' lives, as reflected in the glowing reviews. One student’s testimony highlights how LIHSA not only helped them "improve immensely as a dancer" but also "grow as a person," a powerful endorsement of the school’s holistic approach. Another parent states that their child gained a "huge advantage" for college due to the "specialized training and real-world experience" they received, confirming that LIHSA is not just a place for artistic exploration, but a serious academic and career-building institution.

The "sense of community" is another vital reason to choose LIHSA. The school provides a "safe haven" where students who may not have thrived in a traditional setting can feel celebrated and supported. The community is described as a family, with students and staff who love the arts just as much as you do. This supportive network is essential for young artists, fostering the confidence needed to pursue their dreams. The environment is designed to be inspiring, with creativity in every hallway, from dancers rehearsing to students painting and filming. This immersive atmosphere is a constant source of motivation and collaboration.

Finally, the practical advantages of LIHSA are significant. The half-day program allows students to pursue their artistic passions without sacrificing their core academics at their home high school. The extensive, professional-grade facilities, including studios and theaters, give students a taste of what it's like to work in the industry. The accessibility features, such as wheelchair-accessible parking and entrances, also demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity. In summary, LIHSA is worth choosing because it offers a rare combination of professional artistic training, a nurturing community, and a clear pathway to future success, making it a true treasure for the arts community on Long Island.

Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts

239 Cold Spring Rd, Syosset, NY 11791, USA