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Parents and community leaders back performing-arts charter, say it boosts academics
Summary
Multiple local speakers — including a parent, former band instructor and longtime volunteer — told the board the performing-arts model can raise academic outcomes, citing comparative test-score advantages and personal experience with local music programs.
Several community members spoke in favor of the Academy of Performing Arts application, arguing the performing-arts focus would improve academic outcomes and provide opportunities not currently available in Cherokee County schools. Jessica Miranda, a retired classical ballet dancer and former volunteer band instructor, said arts‑integrated instruction raises test scores: “The arts train the mind... Language is approximately 0.6 above in standard deviation. Math, 0.3. Overall GPA, 0.5.”
Peter Wagner, a parent, urged the board to treat APA as a potential partner rather than a competitor, saying the proposal appeared designed to bring additional resources into the district. Brenda Earls, a long‑time volunteer, stressed community trust and cautioned the board to weigh the program’s quality and the impact on students before making a decision.
Supporters said APA would help prepare students for secondary programs and create expanded arts pathways; they asked the board to consider how partnerships could work with existing district offerings rather than viewing the charter as purely competitive.
