The ADVANCED ARTS PROGRAM aka "AAP"

The Chicago Public Schools Advanced Arts Program (AAP) is a rigorous early college and career arts opportunity for juniors and seniors who attend Chicago Public Schools.  Students selected for AAP are encouraged to define and refine their artistic voice through project based learning experiences in numerous arts disciplines.

​AAP courses designed for both emerging and advanced art students include Creative Arts & Ceramics, Culinary, Dance, Photography, Theater, Video Production, and Modern Band.  AAP courses requiring more experience and proficiency include Animation, Drawing & Painting, and Music Theory.

Approximately 150 students from CPS schools across the city attend the Advanced Arts Program for two hours each school day as part of their daily schedule throughout the academic year.  Each course is taught by a CPS arts educator and a professional teaching artist.  All courses qualify for Honors, Dual, or AP credit.  Our downtown Chicago location, at Gallery 37, enables students to study and experience art in a world class cultural mecca.  In a typical school year students visit and collaborate with professionals from museums, theaters, arts organizations, colleges, universities, cultural institutions, restaurants, and hospitality groups.  Course materials and transportation are provided free of charge to AAP students.  AAP is offered by the Chicago Public Schools Department of Arts Education to enhance artistic experiences and pathways for our immensely talented and dedicated students.

Program Details

As part of the students' regular school day, classes meet five days a week from 3:00pm - 4:40pm for the entire school year at Gallery 37 Center for the Arts, located at 66 East Randolph Street.  Students receive daily bus passes for round-trip transportation.  All course materials and equipment are provided.

AAP HANDBOOK - English

AAP Handbook - Spanish