The Barbara Gathers Fine Arts Department has grown from a fledgling department to an award winning program that has fostered many accomplished artists, musicians and dancers all across the trig-state area. We have helped students achieve their dreams of attending Performing Arts High Schools and performed in venues such as Carnegie Hall, worked with Alvin Ailey, and having work curated in the Metropolitan Museum of Art...even the largest screen in Times Square!

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We’re proud of the reputation that Frederick Douglass Academy VIII has gained throughout the years - for a place where students and instructors alike can thrive and make the most of their talents. Every year, we gladly welcome creative and passionate students from District 19 and beyond.

 

Frederick Douglass Academy VIII is an ideal Arts School for students to prepare for Performing arts High Schools, understand fully their chosen craft, or as a means of self expression. Whether you’re enrolled or thinking of applying, continue browsing to find out about our programs, admissions process and more.