Artistic Studies

Nurturing artistic talents, self-expression, and critical thinking
International Language Studies & Enterprises, Creative Writing, Integrated Arts, Performing Arts, and Visual Arts

kids-performing

The Path to Educational Excellence

RSI’s arts programs not only nurture and develop pre-professional artistic talent in performing and visual arts but encourage students to think critically and appreciate the value of diverse perspectives. Our approach provides students with a distinctive, holistic educational journey that nurtures every aspect of their development.

Many studies show that children who participate in the arts, including language arts, become better developed and more successful adults. While many do not pursue a career in the arts, they are found to be better doctors, attorneys, business owners and professionals because they think differently. Our arts programs also build confidence and presentation skills by providing opportunities for students at every level to showcase their works through performances, publications, and gallery exhibitions.

RSI Arts Programs

exploratory-arts

Exploratory Arts
Grades K-5

Pre-Conservatory Pathways
Grades 6-8

Conservatory Pathways
Grades 9-12

Arts Program Development Team

ralph-opacic

Ralph Opacic

john-blaylock

John Blaylock

emma-cheung

Emma Cheung

stephanie-dorian

Stephanie Dorian

Diana Farrell

Exploratory Arts (Grades K-5)

Exploratory Arts is a comprehensive educational program designed to cultivate artistic expression and creative thinking in elementary school students through carefully structured curricula that integrate advanced academics and immersive language learning with visual, performing, and fine arts. Students engage in hands-on exploration across diverse artistic mediums including painting, drawing, creative writing, vocal performance, and acting, with skills progressively developing at each grade level. The program emphasizes the creative process, allowing students to learn foundational artistic techniques while developing critical communication skills, empathy, and personal expression. Collaborative projects are a core component, encouraging students to work together, share ideas, and appreciate diverse artistic perspectives.

Each week, students participate in three distinct artistic mediums, such as musical instruments, drawing, and choir. These specialized classes are thoughtfully designed to develop foundational skills, encourage creativity, and build confidence. At the conclusion of each segment, students showcase their newly acquired talents through dedicated performances and exhibitions. Through this holistic approach, the Exploratory Arts Program aims to establish a strong foundation for lifelong artistic engagement, self-expression, and creative thinking in young learners.

Afterschool Arts Enrichment Program (Grades K-12)

For students seeking deeper artistic exploration, our Afterschool Arts Enrichment Program provides additional opportunities for advanced learning, specialized workshops, and intensive arts skill development.

Pre-Conservatory Arts Pathways (Grades 6-8)

The Pre-Conservatory Program for grades 6-8 provides an innovative arts education designed to nurture emerging artistic talents. Students receive specialized instruction from professional teaching artists across multiple disciplines, including performance, vocals, acting, musical theater, creative writing, 2D Art, 3D Art, computer design and art, and arts enterprises. Through intensive training, collaborative projects, and regular performances and exhibitions, participants develop technical skills, creative expression, and a deep understanding of their chosen artistic mediums.

Conservatory Pathways (Grades 9-12)

High school students are invited to participate with the Pre-Conservatory Pathways for Grades 6-8 while the high school Conservatory Programs for grades 9-12 are currently under development. The Pre-Conservatory Programs for grades 6-8 serve as a critical foundation for students passionate about pursuing advanced artistic training. The upcoming Conservatory Programs for Grades 9-12 will represent a strategic extension of the pre-conservatory curriculum, designed to provide students with an advanced, intensive artistic training experience. The high school Conservatory Programs are slated for release in the 2026-27 academic year.

dia-de-los-muertos

International Language Studies and Enterprises
Pre-Conservatory (Grades 6-8)

The International Language Studies and Enterprises Pre-Conservatory offers intensive immersion in English, Spanish, and/or Mandarin, blending linguistic proficiency with cultural exploration, while simultaneously delving into business aspects. Students cultivate practical language skills while developing a deep understanding of international cultures. They build a diverse portfolio spanning multiple languages and business projects, positioning them as versatile contributors in the global landscape of arts, culture, and enterprises.

Creative Writing
Pre-Conservatory (Grades 6-8)

The Creative Writing Pre-Conservatory gives students an opportunity to explore and cultivate their creative voice through fiction, poetry, dramatic writing, and creative nonfiction. Students will learn the value of community and confidence as they study the fundamental building blocks of storytelling and personal expression through writing. Examples of courses include Brainstorm, Elements of Fiction, Verse and Lyric, Writing for the Stage and Screen, Middle School Memoir, Intro to Source Material, and Genre Study.

Integrated Arts
Pre-Conservatory (Grades 6-8)

The Integrated Arts Pre-Conservatory offers a vibrant, interdisciplinary approach for students passionate about diverse artistic disciplines. This program provides comprehensive exposure to visual arts, musical theater, voice, and acting, encouraging students to explore their creativity and develop their artistic skills while fostering collaboration and appreciation for different art forms. Integrated Arts inspires students to discover their passions and enhance their overall artistic perspective.

Performing Arts
Pre-Conservatory (Grades 6-8)

Designed for students passionate about theater, film, and television, this program offers comprehensive training in acting, vocal performance, and stage movement. Acting spans Shakespeare to on-camera technique; Musical Theater embraces the Golden Era through contemporary Broadway; and Vocal Performance emphasizes a healthy technique to achieve one’s full potential in any style. Develop the confidence, creativity, and technical skills needed for success in the performing arts.

Visual Arts
Pre-Conservatory (Grades 6-8)

Using both traditional methods and modern design, this program nurtures artistic talent through fine arts, graphic design, and digital art. Students will gain experience in various media, fostering creativity alongside technical skills. The curriculum integrates foundational technical training and specialty education, which students will progress towards, through select college-level electives that contribute to a standout portfolio.