Academy Background
The Performing Arts Academy is a four-year public high school administered by the Ocean County Vocational Technical School District. It is a part of the Navy Lakehurst Center located at the Lakehurst Naval Air Engineering Station. The Academy opened in September, 2001 for students entering the 9th grade. The Academy is designed to provide performing arts curricula focused in dance, vocal music, and acting, along with a college preparatory academic program. The school exists to provide a unique, nurturing, and challenging learning environment for students living in Ocean County who are gifted in the performing arts.

PAA Quick Facts
Type of School: Public
Grades Included: 9-12
Total Enrollment: 172 (as of September 2008)
CEEB Code: 310683

PAA Mission
The Mission of the Performing Arts Academy is to provide an academically challenging education for creatively gifted high school students. Enhanced performing arts training will empower graduates with the practical skills for higher education and/or a professional career in the arts. Our unique teaching philosophy strives to incorporate the arts into all educational areas by integrating curriculum and by interaction with professionals from the arts industry.

Located in Lakehurst, New Jersey, the Performing Arts Academy is centrally located to the south of New York City, north of Atlantic City, and east of Philadelphia.

The Ocean County Vocational Technical School District is responsible for recruitment, admissions, and the instructional program. There are over 23,000 high school students enrolled in Ocean County Public Schools. The Performing Arts Academy is a competitive, specialized high school that selects students for its 9th grade class each year from applicants found within the public and private schools of Ocean County.