Friendship Academy of the Arts
Minneapolis School Finder Rating
About
About Us
Friendship Academy of the Arts (FAA) is a vibrant, student-centered school dedicated to fostering academic excellence, creativity, & strong character in every child. Rooted in the belief that the arts enhance learning, the school integrates music, visual arts, dance, & theater into its rigorous academic program, ensuring students thrive both intellectually & artistically.
FAA creates a nurturing environment where positive relationships, high expectations, & cultural pride empower students to reach their fullest potential. Teachers & staff are deeply committed to knowing each child individually, supporting their growth with care & intentional instruction. The school values family & community partnerships, working together to build a safe, joyful, & inspiring place for children to learn & grow. With a focus on developing confident, creative, & compassionate leaders, FAA equips students with the skills & mindset needed for success in school & beyond.
Languages spoken by school staff
English, Spanish
Extra programming
FAA offers a strong extracurricular program for all students. With community organizations, students can learn a wide range of new extracurricular skills from local experts & role models. African drumming, music, choir, sports, & step dancing are a few examples of the opportunities for students.
Extracurriculars Offered:
Cultural Extracurriculars, Music, Sports, Visual Arts Clubs
Uniforms
Students who attend Friendship Academy of the Arts are required to wear uniforms.
How to enroll
To enroll, contact Friendship Academy at (612) 879-6703 or school@friendshipacademy.org.
Students at this school
Teachers at this school
Average student to teacher ratio
Academics
Low Performing
Academic programming
FAA uses high-quality teaching practices to create high-quality learning. Across all grades, FAA teachers give standards-based lessons & use research-based strategies to help develop the whole child–academically, socially, emotionally, & artistically. Throughout the school, teachers use the same methods & shared language. Lessons are data-driven & teachers make individualized learning plans for each student to make learning equal & to help each student become the best version of themselves. To give students the best classroom experience possible, FAA works with experts to use the best learning & teaching practices. Parents & guardians are also important parts of a student’s learning, so FAA works closely with them as well as learning partners.
Academic Programs Offered:
Arts Focused Programming, Personalized Learning
Special education programming
FAA offers a welcoming, inclusive, & diverse environment for all students. Their Special Education teachers work closely with general education teachers to plan & deliver appropriate & individualized lessons according to each student’s IEP. Teachers use a comprehensive program of both push-in & pull-out, as well as small group direct instruction. They also work with community service partners to provide related services, such as speech & language, occupational therapy, DAPE, & more.
Curricula
For both math & reading, FAA uses the Great Minds curriculum. In math, that is Eureka, & in reading, that is Wit & Wisdom.
English language learner programming
FAA does not currently have any students requiring ELL services. As a result, FAA’s ELL program is currently in development.
Proficiency
1 out of 10 students are performing math at grade level
2 out of 10 students read at grade level
Progress
2 out of 10 students are progressing to graduate on grade-level in math
3 out of 10 students are progressing to graduate on grade-level in reading
Climate
Below Average
School values
FAA is committed to providing a quality education in a positive & welcoming environment. FAA’s whole child approach is an indication that their focus goes beyond academics & extends to providing for the social & emotional well-being of all scholars & staff.
Recess
At FAA, recess is designed to be a safe, welcoming, & meaningful experience for every student. Staff members provide active supervision to ensure safety while encouraging positive play & inclusive interactions. Clear expectations & routines help students feel secure & supported, while restorative practices guide conflict resolution & build strong peer relationships. Recess is seen as an extension of learning, giving students opportunities to practice teamwork, communication, & problem-solving through play. A variety of activities are offered, allowing all children to find ways to engage – whether through structured games, creative play, or quiet spaces for reflection. The school community emphasizes respect, kindness, & belonging, ensuring that each child feels included. By intentionally shaping recess as a time for joy, connection, & growth, FAA helps students return to class re-energized, focused, & ready to learn.
Discipline Policy
FAA prepares students to be leaders for their communities. Students are taught the seven habits of highly effective people to help them make good decisions. FAA believes in the restorative process, & they teach their students how to solve problems & fights with the restorative process.
Teacher retention
Attendance
Discipline
Equity
Below Average
Equity vision
FAA strives to empower scholars to be lifelong leaders & learners by developing the whole child socially, emotionally, academically, & artistically.
