The Academy Is... is an American rock band formed in 2003 in Chicago, Illinois. The group is known for its blend of pop-punk and alternative rock, characterized by catchy melodies and emotional lyrics. Their debut album, Almost Here, was released in 2005 and received positive reviews, helping to establish their presence in the music scene. The band underwent several lineup changes over the years, with William Beckett as the lead vocalist and primary songwriter. They released multiple albums, including Santi and Fast Times at Barrington High, before going on hiatus in 2011. The Academy Is... has influenced many artists in the pop-punk genre.