Historical Preservation of Las Vegas Academy

In 1930, a significant milestone in the educational landscape of Las Vegas was marked by the opening of the city's first high school. Nearly a century later, this institution—originally known as Las Vegas High School—has evolved into the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts, a beacon of creative and academic excellence that continues to shape the city's cultural and educational fabric.

Situated in what was once considered a remote part of the city, the original Las Vegas High School quickly proved naysayers wrong by reaching full enrollment capacity within two years of its inception. This early success was a clear indicator of the community's thirst for educational advancement, setting the stage for the school's long-standing impact on local education.

In 1993, after six decades of serving the community, the institution underwent a significant transformation, reborn as the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts. This pivotal change was more than a rebranding—it was a recommitment to the arts, honoring the school's history while pivoting to a curriculum centered around music, dance, theater, and visual arts. This shift highlighted the school’s dedication to nurturing talent and creativity, cementing its role as a cornerstone in the arts community of Las Vegas.

The Las Vegas Academy of the Arts has not only been a breeding ground for creativity but also a launching pad for its students, many of whom have gained national recognition. The school's legacy is dotted with notable moments, such as the undefeated football team of 1944 and the Las Vegas Rythmettes, a dance troupe that captured the hearts of audiences across the nation. These achievements reflect the school's diverse capabilities in nurturing students with varied interests and talents.

The academy’s influence is perhaps best illustrated by its impressive roster of alumni who have achieved significant success in the arts. Names like Matthew Gray Gubler, Ne-Yo, Molly Bernard, and Julianne Hough resonate not just in Las Vegas but across the globe. Each of these individuals exemplifies the school’s commitment to cultivating the skills and talents necessary for excelling on the world stage.

Today, the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts stands not just as an educational institution but as a cultural icon. It continues to enrich the lives of students and inspire future generations, contributing significantly to the vibrancy of Las Vegas’s cultural scene. The academy's approach to education—rooted in tradition yet forward-looking and innovative—ensures that it remains at the forefront of both artistic and educational sectors.



From its humble beginnings as the first high school in Las Vegas to its current status as a revered arts academy, the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts remains a symbol of excellence and innovation. As it nears its centennial, the academy is a vivid testament to the power of education and the arts to transform lives and shape futures. Every performance and every accolade adds to its storied history, reinforcing its place as a cornerstone of both the past and future of Las Vegas.