Arts build your ability to analyze. As you interpret a play, decode a painting, or discover the essential rhythm of a dance, you get better and better at analyzing. This will prepare you better for college and for life as an adult. That is why we are offering the Fine Arts Focus program at Andrew Jackson Middle School to all Lancaster County middle school students in grades 6-8. In the program, you will “major” in an art area of your greatest interest or ability. You will use your strengths as tools in all of your courses. You will produce and perform as you: 

• Sharpen your aesthetic perception

• Learn the value of the arts

• Study the rich history of the arts

• Explore the culture that created masterpieces

All of your studies will be based on the South Carolina Standards for Visual and Performing Arts. Every subject you take, even your math, science, language arts, and history classes, will use the arts to help you develop skills in those subjects. Imagine the excitement of learning through the arts! 

• Band

• Chorus

• Dance

• Theatre

• Visual Arts

Thank you for your interest in the Fine Arts Focus School.  Below are the application requirements.  If you have any questions please contact Lisa Taylor, Focus Coordinator, at lisa.taylor@lcsd.k12.sc.us.

Applicant must:

• Be a resident of Lancaster County and submit proof of residency by uploading into the application.  This is a must for everyone. 

• Complete an official Andrew Jackson Middle School Fine Arts Focus School application form.

• Submit a copy of the first semester report card by uploading into the application.  Students must have a passing average at the time of application and be promoted to the next grade level at the conclusion of the regular school year.

• Submit three Evaluation Forms. The application will ask for their emails for the forms to be sent to them.  An art teacher who is familiar with your interest in the arts, must complete one of the forms.  All evaluation forms must have a letter of recommendation in the appropriate section.  The evaluator must be someone other than a relative.  At least two (2) of the forms should be filled out by your core teachers.

• During auditions, accommodations will be provided as required for students with disabilities.  Requests for accommodations must be emailed to lisa.taylor@lcsd.k12.sc.us when the application is submitted.

• An applicant may apply for up to two of the arts areas.  A completed application form will be required for each art area with all information uploaded.  For audition scheduling purposes, application packets for both areas must be submitted at the same time.

• All completed applications are due on or before March 7, 2025, NO EXCEPTIONS!

• Applicants will be emailed specific audition and/or portfolio information including the date, time, place and other requirements.  Please make sure the email address you provide is accurate and one you check regularly. General information about each art area can be found in this packet.

• During the application process we will request your attendance and discipline records from your current school.

To apply to the AJMS Fine Arts Focus Program for the 2025-2026 school year, please complete the application at the link below:

AJMS 2025-2026 Application