Agua Fria proposes arts academy in Litchfield Park

By Mary Goldmeer
Mail

The Agua Fria Union High School District has proposed the development of a Fine Arts Academy, set to open in August 2026. The proposal, presented during the school board meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 13, was led by Megan Griego, Julie Jones, and Tom Huffman.

The Fine Arts Academy will be located on the Hilltop in Litchfield Park, within a cultural complex that also includes the P.W. Litchfield Heritage Center, the Arizona Farm & Ranch Museum, a new library, and Hilltop Park. The site holds historical significance, as it was originally designated by the Litchfield family for cultural and performing arts purposes.

 “For many years, I’ve been working on building up the development situation so the city is sustainable. We have the property because the Litchfield family wanted to make sure the property was used in a way that was consistent with what Paul Litchfield envisioned back in the 1920s—a cultural and performing arts area,” Litchfield Park Mayor, Thomas Shoaf said. “It’s always been a cultural center, so the challenge was how do we bring it back?” 

The Fine Arts Academy fits into the district’s 10-year strategic plan, which aims to expand academic choices for students. The academy will be designed to serve up to 450 students, offering pathways focused on arts and entertainment careers.

Students will have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials, college credits, and gain hands-on experience through internships and capstone projects.

The academy will feature a 700-seat performing arts theater, which will support both student performances and community events. The design of the academy will align with Litchfield Park’s architectural style, ensuring that the new facility complements the surrounding cultural landscape.

The Fine Arts Academy project is part of the district’s $50 million allocation from the 2023 bond, which is funding improvements across the district’s facilities. Once complete, the academy will serve as both a center for arts education and a venue for community events and performances.

“We see the site as a cultural center not just for Agua Fria students, but for the entire community,” said Mathew Williams, Litchfield Park city manager.

  The school board will continue to review the proposal before making a final decision on approval. If the project moves forward, it will represent a significant investment in the arts and in the future of students pursuing careers in the entertainment industry, while also enriching the cultural landscape of the West Valley.

Visit aguafria.org for more information.