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Boards

All SCPA students in grades 4-12 are required to participate in the Arts Proficiency Exams (Boards) twice a year for their major.

Technical Theatre Arts Board Proficiency Assessment

The Arts Proficiency Exam (Boards) in Technical Theatre is a comprehensive evaluation that allows students to demonstrate their artistic growth, technical proficiency, and professional readiness at the end of each term. These assessments mirror the expectations of the performing arts industry, emphasizing both creative design and hands-on technical skills.

Purpose

The Arts Proficiency Exam (Boards) serves as a structured way to:

  • Evaluate a student’s progress and mastery of skills in scenic, lighting, sound, costume, or stage management.
  • Provide individualized feedback that highlights strengths and identifies areas for improvement.
  • Encourage the development of professional habits such as organization, safety practices, and teamwork.
  • Ensure students remain on track for advancement within the Technical Theatre program.

Format

Students typically prepare a portfolio presentation—either physical or digital—that showcases their work from the semester. Depending on their area of focus, portfolios may include:

  • Design Materials: sketches, renderings, drafting, ground plans, models, mood boards, or fabric samples.
  • Technical Documentation: cue sheets, rehearsal notes, light plots, sound system diagrams, construction drawings, or budget breakdowns.
  • Production Evidence: photos or videos of realized projects, costumes built, scenic pieces constructed, or lighting and sound effects executed.
  • Stage Management Materials: prompt books, calendars, rehearsal reports, and calling scripts.

Presentation & Review

Students present their Arts Proficiency Exam (Boards) to instructors and peers, explaining their process, problem-solving, and creative decision-making. This professional-style review not only assesses technical knowledge but also develops communication and presentation skills essential in the industry.

Advancement

Performance on the Arts Proficiency Exam (Boards) is a key factor in student progression through the Technical Theatre learning levels. Combined with daily work, assessments, and production responsibilities, the evaluation helps determine readiness for more advanced coursework and design opportunities.