The Arts Academy, a new charter middle school in Salisbury Township, held a party Thursday evening at the Da Vinci Science Center to celebrate its anticipated opening in August.

The Arts Academy will serve students in grades 5-8 and feature an academic and arts curriculum with classes in dance, figure skating, instrumental music, theater, vocal music and visual arts. The school has 325 students enrolled from throughout the Lehigh Valley, according to William Fitzpatrick, executive director.

"It's a tuition-free school with a clear focus on the arts," said Principal Jan Labellarte.

The school, which will open in the former KidsPeace building, 1610 E. Emmaus Ave., was bought by developer Abe Atiyeh last month and is undergoing extensive renovations.