The Arts & College Preparatory Academy is a unique school on the east side of Columbus that breaks down the traditional barriers between class subject matter by connecting the dots for artistically inclined students. For example, upon one of our very first tours of the building our student guide told the story of how he always loved and was naturally talented at music but was failing math in middle school. At ACPA, he was taught the connections between music and math and now was excelling in calculus.

ACPA has become a recognized leader in safety, acceptance, and inclusion all while maintaining high standards regarding rigorous academics and a commitment to the arts. The renovation to the high school and significant addition that houses middle school operations was completed in August 2019. With ACPA's emphasis on progressive education, the design of the addition is meant to mirror those beliefs in the physical world. This is achieved by creating collaborative spaces such as extended learning areas and the cafetorium that act as a threshold between the private classroom setting and group spaces. The vibrant colors and materiality used throughout the addition can be interpreted to represent the institutions values of inclusivity.