Maybe these two schools should swap principals.
As critics of storied La Guardia Performing Arts HS push to reverse its growing academic focus, some frustrated parents at another Manhattan arts school are demanding the opposite: more books and less Broadway.
A parental faction at Professional Performing Arts School in Hell’s Kitchen claim basic learning has been left behind in favor of splashy stage productions, The Post has learned.
The PPAS, which counts songstress Alicia Keys and actor Jesse Eisenberg as graduates, is so divided that school security guards were posted at heated PTA meetings last year, according to parent Brenna Grossman.
Critics claim that Principal Keith Ryan has subordinated basic subjects to the point that kids aren’t prepared for college — and that the performing-arts focus at the grades 6 to 12 school is out of hand.
“There is just a seeming indifference on the part of administration towards the curriculum,” said Grossman, the mother of a PPAS senior.
School critics also noted a Department of Education report that found that only 57 percent of PPAS kids were considered college ready.
The dissenters started a Web site last year to organize their campaign aimed at “taking our school back.”
But the complaining parents have run into stiff opposition from other PPAS moms and dads who are thrilled with the school’s artistic focus.
“I think some of these parents are making excuses for their kids,” one parent said.
The dispute is the reverse of a simmering confrontation at La Guardia, where alumni and parents have questioned an excessive focus on academics by principal Lisa Mars.
Another parent suggested an even trade between La Guardia and PPAS.
“Maybe if things get too hot for Mars at La Guardia, she might like to shake things up at PPAS, and in return, maybe our principal might enjoy helping to return things to normal at La Guardia?” he quipped.
The DOE said PPAS maintains high academic standards and pointed to a 98 percent graduation rate. The DOE also denied that extra security was provided for raucous PTA meetings.