Discover how the Debbie Allen Middle School combines rigorous academics with world-class performing arts training.

A Vision for Young Artists

When the Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA) launched its middle school program in August 2021, it represented a new model for arts education — one that allows students to pursue both academic excellence and artistic passion. Debbie Allen, a BFA graduate of Howard University in Theater and Classical Greek Studies, holds six honorary Doctorate degrees, has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and is an award-winning director/choreographer. Ms. Allen opened the Debbie Allen Middle School with the vision for a combined academic and performing arts curriculum that will benefit young, aspiring dancers to foster a life-long love of learning. The Debbie Allen Middle School (DAMS) is built on the belief that education, diversity and creativity should work together to develop the next generation of thinkers, artists and innovators.

Housed within the dynamic environment of Rhimes Performing Arts Center, the middle school serves students in grades six through eight. Each grade is capped at 15 students, with a total enrollment of 45 students per year, ensuring that every learner receives individualized attention and support. DAMS achieved 3-year WASC accreditation in 2025. Tuition is $25,000 annually, with limited scholarships available.

A Balanced and Challenging Interdisciplinary Academic Program

The academic curriculum at Debbie Allen Middle School is aligned with the California State Standards for Education and NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards), offering students a strong academic foundation. Teachers are encouraged to teach from a creative, cross-disciplinary notion, leading students to apply many disciplines in every class. Classes are structured to be both rigorous and engaging, preparing students for success at the high school level and beyond.

The Innovative Creative Education Course invites students to explore, collaborate and grow through hands-on, project-based learning. In this dynamic class, students don’t just study — they create, question and lead. Every project encourages cooperative learning, research, social-emotional development, financial literacy, public speaking and writing — skills that prepare students to thrive both in and out of the classroom. This class also allows for an expansion of the arts, from theater, voice and music appreciation, with Master classes from prominent figures in the entertainment industry.

Growth deserves to be seen and celebrated. Through benchmark testing conducted twice a year — including STAR and ERB assessments — teachers gain meaningful insight into each student’s academic journey. DAMS’ dedicated faculty then uses this data to personalize instruction, plan strategically and support every learner. Teachers also receive ongoing coaching and professional development, ensuring that everyone’s methods evolve right alongside their students. Most importantly, this testing data is shared with students and families, helping everyone understand progress, set schoolwide and individual goals, and celebrate each milestone along the way.

Immersive Training in the Performing Arts

At the heart of the program lies a comprehensive performing-arts curriculum. Students receive rigorous instruction in Ballet, Jazz and Modern dance, three foundational techniques that promote strength, precision and artistic expression.

In addition to core dance studies, students will be exposed to a variety of elective classes, including:

• African
• Tap
• Hip Hop
• Dunham
• Arco

Inspiring Lifelong Learners

Debbie Allen Middle School is more than an academic institution, it is a creative community that nurtures the mind, body and spirit of each student. By blending the rigor of traditional academics with the expressive power of the performing arts, the school equips young dancers with the tools to excel in any field they choose.

“To be in DAMS is to foster a lifelong love of learning through the arts.”-Debbie Allen