Monroe Academy for Visual Arts and Design was founded in 1994 when James Monroe High School was restructured into small schools—one of the first large high schools to be split up. Of the four small schools opened in 1994, only the Monroe Academy for Visual Arts and Design remains. The others were closed for poor performance and replaced by still other new small schools.

The academy benefits from stable leadership. Richard Massel, principal since 2005, has the support and respect of his staff, according to the Learning Environment Survey. Most students feel safe, and teachers say order and discipline are maintained in the school. Students must pass through metal detectors to enter the building.

The school serves a very needy population. About one-third of the students are not fluent in English; more than one-quarter receive special education services. Ten girls became pregnant one year, according to the School Stories blog. The academy has very high rates of absenteeism: more than half the students typically miss more than a month of school.

Students are required to complete two semesters of art although they may take art all four years.

Students may take part in joint sports teams with other schools in the building.

Admissions: Educational option formula design to ensure a mix of students of different abilities. (Clara Hemphill, statistics, February 2013)