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A diploma for dedicated artists
Seeking to inspire and recognize students who show outstanding ability and interest in the arts, The John Carroll School created the Fine Arts Diploma with Distinction (FADD). This diploma celebrates the accomplishments of students who make a commitment to pursuing Fine Arts throughout their high school experience. Students selected for FADD are also evaluated for competitive scholarships based upon their submissions.
There are three primary areas of interest from which students must choose a single concentration: Performing Arts, Visual Art and Design, or Literary Arts. In addition to tailoring the application process, this selection then pairs the student with the corresponding concentration mentor.
FADD applications will be accepted through the end of January; however, please note that for best consideration for available scholarships, we recommend submitting the FADD application on or before the admissions application deadline. For Performing Arts, this would also include registering for an audition by the admissions deadline. For application criteria and to apply, click the appropriate link below!
Graduation requirements
Please make note of the following FADD requirements:
The Fine Arts Department Chair recommends students to graduate with this diploma after carefully weighing and considering all aspects of a student’s record, which includes the following criteria:
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above
- Earn a minimum of three credits in Fine Arts electives in grades 10-12 (these electives may be in any of the three areas, not exclusively the area of concentration)
- Receive no final course grade below 80 in all applicable Fine Arts courses
- Actively participate in at least one Fine Arts co-curricular during grades 11-12 (these may include co-curriculars from any of the three areas)
- Incorporate FADD into Patriot Project by completing one of the following options:
a.) Students with one distinction will apply it to their Patriot Project research and Action Plan;
b.) Students with two or more distinctions will apply both to their Patriot Project research and Action Plan, or
c.) Students with two or more distinctions will apply one to their Patriot Project research and Action Plan, and pursue an outside experience for their remaining distinctions.
An outside experience is defined as an internship, summer fieldwork, shadow opportunity or community service project, all of which must be pre-approved by the FADD Distinction Coordinator of their chosen concentration. Supporting documentation for the outside experience must include an email from the adult mentor, as well as a two-page essay summarizing the experience and its subsequent impact on the student.
Literary Arts track
Students interested in pursuing the Literary Arts track while at The John Carroll School may elect to take a variety of courses, including working on our award-winning newspaper, literary magazine, and yearbook. This will allow students to graduate with a Fine Arts Diploma with Distinction upon completion of the program requirements.
To apply for the Literary Arts Track of the Fine Arts Diploma with Distinction, students should complete the application below, including uploading a writing sample and an essay answering the provided questions.
Have questions?
For questions, contact English Department Chair Mr. Matt Blair:
Performing Arts track
Students pursuing the Performing Arts track while at The John Carroll School are eligible to be enrolled in a major music ensemble (Chorus, Band, Orchestra) for four years. Students are encouraged to attend auditions in January for consideration for placement in advanced and specialty music ensembles as well. Additional performing arts classes and co-curricular activities are offered to round out the FADD student’s performing arts experience and to ensure accessibility to complete program requirements.
To apply for the Performing Arts Track of the Fine Arts Diploma with Distinction, students should complete the application below, including uploading a performance resume as well as an essay answering the provided questions.
Have questions?
For questions, contact Mrs. Julie Parrish, Director of Performing Arts:
Visual Art & Design track
Art affords a method of expression as unique as the individual who creates it and the pieces they create. Students accepted into the FADD Visual Art and Design Concentration begin their artistic journey by taking Intro to Drawing and Design as Freshmen. As a result, they are afforded earlier access to upper-level courses and can accommodate more of the department's offerings.
To apply for the Visual Art and Design Concentration, students use a digital portfolio and written essay to express who they are and why they would like to be part of our dynamic department. Students should complete the application below, including uploading a digital portfolio with a minimum of five drawings. These may be from previous classes or from independent efforts showcasing strengths, interests and individuality. An artist statement is suggested but not required. An essay answering the questions below is required.
Portfolio submission guidelines
- Two drawings from direct observation (e.g., still life sketches)
- Two finished pieces, suitable for display, in pencil, charcoal, pen and ink, watercolor, oil or acrylic.
- One additional piece of the artist's choice in ceramics, sculpture, printmaking, photography, digital design, architectural drawing or model, CAD drawing or from the previous list of mediums above.
Additional examples of any type are welcome!
Have questions?
For questions, contact Fine Arts Department Chair Mrs. Lisa Collins:
