In 1981, all Janet Cherif wanted was a well rounded school curriculum for her children. Her personal decision to launch the Children's Creative and Performing Arts Academy has embraced the lives of children and families in San Diego ever since. While standard education in America is primarily focused on reading and math, Janet discovered through years of research that in order to develop both sides of the brain, the exploration of arts and academics should be taught simultaneously.

For years, the academy was located in a traditional setting at a retired public school in Clairemont. In 2006 the lease at that location was up and Janet jumped on the opportunity to purchase the former mortuary building on the corner of Ohio Street and El Cajon Boulevard. The beautiful two story colonial building exudes the look of a prominent place of learning.

For several parents, their perception of this neighborhood forced them to pull their kids out, but soon enough, almost every student returned. Once they reconsidered the value the school plays in their children's education, they also realized all the culture and history the neighborhood has to offer. For Janet, this location offers the students a real community. They walk to the North Park Recreation Center for P.E., buy lunch and snacks around the corner at Vons and some of the older students commute by public transit. More than anything, the students cherish the opportunity to perform in public, and what is more spectacular than the newly renovated, North Park Theater, which the students now perform at four times a year.

Another special link from the neighborhood is Sue Hamilton, the renowned dance teacher who owned a studio on El Cajon Boulevard for over 30 years is now the head performing arts instructor. With almost 200 students enrolled in pre-school through twelfth grade, everyone is considered family. Over spring break, Janet takes students on back-packing trips throughout Europe. Once they graduate, Janet is pleased to know that each student is well prepared for a four year university, and hopes that she has planted seeds for long-term wisdom and an understanding of the world around them.