About Our Program

How long has the A&H Program been in existence?

Planning began for the Arts and Humanities Focus Program in 1997. The original team of teachers were hired in 1998.

How do I apply? When should I apply?

Fill out the application here. You will provide your contact information, parent/guardian information, submit the names of two references that can speak positively about you, and answer a few questions about yourself. You can apply at any time. Applications are reviewed once they are received.

What does it mean to be accepted to the program?

To be accepted into the Arts and Humanities Focus Program, a student will be introduced into a new environment that is different from a home high school. The program offers complex classes, and students who welcome challenges, and are self-motivated in nature. The Arts and Humanities Focus Program is one which encourages diversity in thought and principles.

For whom is the program designed?

The Arts and Humanities Focus Program is designed for high school students. The daily schedule allows for students to take at least two classes at their home high school (per semester) prior to the start of the program each day, although they have the option to take more at their home high school.

Is everyone who applies accepted?

Students with an affinity towards the arts, writing, appreciation of music, humanitarian causes, or cultural differences and values are who we as a school look for.

The Arts and Humanities Focus Program tries to maintain a specific number of students each semester. However, students who are academically prepared, possess the maturity and appreciation for the privileges this environment holds, and have the motivation and time-management skills necessary for success are welcome. Of course, being an Arts and Humanities focused school, we do hope for students who have prior knowledge to one or both areas, as well as experience.

How will I stay informed about my home high school?

Students will be responsible for remaining informed about their home high school and the events there. They are allowed to maintain full affiliation with their home high school along with the Arts and Humanities Focus Program, and all graduate activities will still be tied to their home high school. Athletics and other school activities will also remain available at their home high school, although Student Council is also offered at Arts and Humanities.

What is the Humanities Course?

Humanities is an interdisciplinary course that explores the richness of the human experience by examining how art, history, literature, philosophy, and culture both reflect and shape our understanding of ourselves and our world. From ancient artifacts to contemporary stories, students will think critically, read and write analytically, and engage in project-based learning to make connections across disciplines and consider how the past informs our present and future. Each semester centers on specific themes and culminates in a final senior project that involves inquiry, research, writing, a creative representation of their findings, and a final presentation.

Students earn 5 credits each semester for this Humanities course of study. In the Humanities course, students will be paired with one teacher as their primary instructor. The class is a cross grade level class – which is one element of A&H that leads to a strong community within the school.

Will I be able to take regular LPS courses?

The Arts and Humanities Focus Program offers courses that meet the same graduation requirements and elective courses that also count toward graduation. Student transcripts will reflect these course titles. Within each area of instruction, major course objectives are approved by the Lincoln Board of Education. Some courses are unique to A&H and may not be offered at student’s home high schools. Likewise, departments such as Science, World Language and P.E. are not offered at A&H and students will complete those courses at their home high school.

Are differentiated/AP courses offered at A&H?

Yes! Many differentiated and AP courses are offered at A&H. These courses are offered in each of the content areas offered at A&H . . . Art, Math, English and Social Studies.