Next-Generation Education: Classen School Of Advanced Studies Prepares Future Artists, Musicians And Scholars

Students across Oklahoma City headed back to the classroom Thursday. News 9 visited Classen School of Advanced studies as students and teachers were welcomed for their first day back.

“Take a peek at what our wonderful students are doing. Some extremely talented students here,” Deputy Superintendent Jason Brown said.

Classen School of Advanced Studies is working to prepare the next generation of students, artists, musicians and scholars.

“So awesome to see them thrive in so many different areas,” Principal Chris Thomas said.

Classen isn’t your typical middle school, and they don’t follow a typical curriculum. 

“They are currently looking at a hallway that's decorated with murals that have accumulated over the years and this is a project that they themselves will get to do this year,” Jeanne Parkhurst, a visual arts teacher, said. “My goals are always to get the kids to find their creative side.”

Their students have the option of going through a rigorous baccalaureate program or a performing arts program.

“It gives them an opportunity to either perform, or really get into their academics and dive deep into a rigorous curriculum,” Thomas said.

News 9 got to visit an art class, and an orchestra class when we were at Classen SAS.

“I love getting to be with others and playing in an ensemble,” 8th grade student, Leslie Sosa, said. “I'm also thinking about being a musician since I love my instrument so much.”

“I think my favorite thing about teaching in general is making those memories with the students. we create a lot of really beautiful music together and that's so meaningful,” Orchestra teacher Michele Contreras, said.

The students have multiple opportunities to perform in and outside of school this year, and even get the chance to perform in statewide competitions. 

“I just can't wait to get started, can't wait to see my kids perform,” Thomas said.