Administration's Message
Welcome to Grand Center Arts Academy!
Kristy Houle, Head of School
Dear Parents and Families,
Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year at Grand Center Arts Academy! It is with great excitement and gratitude that I welcome our students, families, staff, and community partners to another school year at Grand Center Arts Academy. GCAA is a truly special place where academics, artistry, creativity, and community come together in the heart of St. Louis's vibrant arts district. As I begin another year as Head of School, I remain deeply honored to serve this incredible school community.
Over the past year, I have had the opportunity to learn alongside our students, partner with our families, support our staff, and celebrate the many ways GCAA students continue to grow as scholars, artists, leaders, and individuals. I am proud of all we accomplished together, and I am even more excited about what lies ahead. At Grand Center Arts Academy, we believe that every student brings unique gifts, talents, perspectives, and possibilities into our building each day. Our school motto, Creative Genius, is more than a phrase—it is a belief that guides how we see and support our students. We are committed to helping each student discover their strengths, find their voice, and prepare for success in school and beyond.
This school year, we will continue to focus on strong academic instruction, meaningful arts experiences, a positive school culture, student belonging, and college and career readiness. We know that students thrive when they are challenged, supported, and known by the adults around them. Our goal is to provide a safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environment where students think critically, create boldly, build confidence, and take ownership of their learning.
One of the things that makes GCAA so unique is our location within the Grand Center Arts District. Our students are surrounded by theaters, museums, galleries, music venues, and community partners that help bring learning to life. This environment is not simply where our school is located—it is part of who we are. We want our students to see themselves as artists, scholars, and leaders who are part of a larger creative community, and to understand that their talents, ideas, and contributions matter.
As we begin the 2026–2027 school year, I encourage every student to approach the year with curiosity, commitment, and courage. I invite families to remain active partners in their child’s education, and I encourage our staff to continue leading with purpose, care, and high expectations. Together, we will continue building a school community that reflects the very best of GCAA.
Grand Center Arts Academy is more than a school—it's a place where students are seen, challenged, inspired, and prepared for what comes next. I look forward to another year of learning, creativity, growth, and celebration. Welcome back, GCAA. Let’s make the 2026–2027 school year a meaningful and memorable one.