A Word From the Dean of Students

It is always challenging to enter a new environment. Each year presents new experiences whether you are a new or a returning student. Adjusting to boarding school life is no exception. Students and parents need all the guidance and support that we can provide, and your child will find strong support here throughout the year. Sometimes parents feel left out, distanced and even at a loss about how to deal with the inevitable ups and downs of the school year. However, we believe that parents, too, need guidance and support.

We hope this section of the Web site, devoted to parents, answers some of the questions you may have. As you explore, you'll find information about the support staff at Idyllwild Arts Academy as well as some things to expect throughout the school year.

When your child enrolls at Idyllwild Arts, two new relationships are formed. Your child becomes a student of Idyllwild Arts and you, as parents, form a relationship with the school. Your child's experience at Idyllwild Arts is determined as much by these relationships as by his or her artistic ability, scholastic achievement and your aspirations as parents. We feel that the most important element in these relationships is communication. Whether it be between you and your child, the school and your child, you and the school, or all of us together, communication needs to be continuous, clear and direct. This will enable us to work together in concert to provide the best learning experience possible.

Idyllwild Arts is a unique and exceptional environment. Our commitment to academic and artistic excellence provides students with challenges as well as the inevitable stresses and strains that accompany striving for mastery. We will do all that we can to assure your child's success. We know that you will join us in this exciting journey and look forward to a long and fruitful relationship.

John Newman
Dean of Students