The Miller South school was built in 1956, initially operating under the name South High School. In 1971, a Lakeshore Annex extension was added to the building, and in 1975, the institution was expanded again. However, in 1980, the school closed, only to reopen 13 years later, in 1993, after a survey of parents, students, and staff confirmed community support for establishing an arts-focused educational institution. The school was restarted as Miller South School for the Visual and Performing Arts. It was originally called South Education Center but later received its current name in honor of George C. Miller, the first African American principal of a school in Akron.
Miller South School for Visual and Performing Arts combines a standard core curriculum with specialized programs in:
- Visual Arts
- Dance
- Drama
- Vocal Music
- Instrumental Music (orchestra, piano, wind instruments)
Students receive daily lessons in their chosen art discipline and have opportunities to participate in performances and exhibitions. To enroll in Miller South, students must first submit an application during the open registration period (November – the first half of December) in the year prior to admission. Selection takes place through auditions in the spring.
Miller South has an "Excellent with Distinction" rating, which is a high accolade for schools in the Summit district. Out of 12 schools in the district, only a few have such a rating.
Professional Staff and Students
- Music teachers at Miller South have an average of 17 years of teaching experience, with 84% holding a master's degree or higher.
- The diverse student body includes children not only from the Akron area but also from neighboring suburbs—125 students are registered under the open registration program from suburban communities.
- The school is equipped with six arts studios, including a dance studio, art studios with computers for graphic arts, a 900-seat auditorium, a "Little Theatre," and a Yamaha laboratory with 15 keyboard instruments.
Academic Program of Miller South
Students at Miller South consistently demonstrate high test scores, with OPTs ranging from 86-100%, making them some of the highest in the city and comparable to results from neighboring school districts.
In addition to a strong academic program, the school offers advanced studies in visual arts, vocal and instrumental music, dance, and drama. Miller South is recognized by numerous universities and arts organizations, including the International Network of Visual and Performing Art Schools, Ohio Arts Alliance, Kent State Stark Campus, and Keep Akron Beautiful.
Events and Activities at Miller South
- Winter concert for parents, friends, and community
- Participation in the state-level Junior Thespian Conference
- Performances by show choir and concert choir
- Spring dance performance
- Spring musical production
- Exceptional opportunities for field trips at local, national, and international levels
- Partnerships with leading Akron arts organizations
The Miller South School for Visual and Performing Arts provides students with a unique opportunity to combine arts education with academic training, laying a strong foundation for future creative achievements.
Current Information:
Address: 1055 East Ave, Akron, OH 44307, United States
Contacts: +1 (330) 761-2610
School District: Akron City School District
Schedule:
Mon-Fri 08:00-15:15 (08:00 AM - 03:15 PM)
Sat-Sun – closed
