Eliot Art’s Conservatory Shines in Fall of 2025!

School is back in session, and the students at Eliot Arts Magnet are off to an amazing start! This year ushered in a very excited group of middle school students, and continued enthusiasm for the school’s signature conservatory program. The program has become so popular that it is now completely full, with 170 students participating!

“We are so happy about the student body’s continued interest in our conservatory program! We believe that this speaks to the caliber of the teaching staff and expert partners who help teach and shape the program. They create amazing experiences that our kids just love!!” – Principal McKenzie

The conservatory program allows students to choose a discipline that speaks to them. They can select from Music, Art, Theatre, or Dance. And for those more interested in the art of athletic competition, there is an athletic conditioning option! In 6th grade, students are encouraged to explore the different options. Starting in 7th grade, students then spend two years exploring and developing their skills within this discipline. This prepares them for more advanced coursework in these areas in high school and beyond.

Eliot’s theatre program is very popular this year. Conservatory students were invited to audition for Eliot’s Spring production of Robin Hood! Audition day welcomed about 50 students, who bravely read for a variety of parts. For students who are not interested in being on stage, there are opportunities to work behind the scenes – exploring stage craft assisting with costuming, lighting, sound design and stage management.

There are many other ways that the arts are integrated into the everyday classroom. English assignments may be complemented with a magazine design component so students can explore storytelling through words and images. Math class might include translating simple geometric shapes into a picture of an animal, building spatial relation skills. These experiences help students think critically, use creativity, communicate, and collaborate. Each student deepens their understanding of the various art forms and develops skills that will help them in their future careers and in real world situations.

To learn more about Eliot Arts Magnet Middle School and its programs sign up for a tour: pusd.us/eliotartstours.

“Eliot Arts Magnet campus was damaged by the Eaton Fire. Our School community is co-located at McKinley School at 325 S. Oak Knoll St., Pasadena, CA 91101 or visit https://eliot.pusd.us/.”