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To provide quality accessible arts education programs for Jackson County youth regardless of their financial means.
Jackson School of the Arts is a vibrant welcoming inclusive place that provides arts education programs for all ages and abilities.
Since 2001, Jackson School of the Arts mission is to make the arts accessible to Jackson County youth regardless of their financial means. The work of including, finding and providing programs to students not served anywhere else is at the center of the Jackson School of the Arts efforts.
We serve all youth by providing high-quality, low-cost, out-of-school programs for ages 18 months to 18 in Art, Dance, Theater, Gymnastics, and Tae Kwon Do. Children come to take after-school classes from all surrounding counties. Many are at-risk as identified by these indicators: poverty, welfare dependence, one parent household, un-wed mothers or both parents absent. We know that kids need an outlet for their creativity and energy. If this is stifled, they’ll find other ways of engaging in negative behavior. Our organization give over $6,000 away each month in scholarships to our students.
Research has shown that “learning in and through the arts can help level the playing field for youngsters from disadvantaged circumstances.” The act of artistic creation expands and inspires young minds. An education rich in the arts is critical to the full intellectual, emotional, and social development of children – further, successful out-of-school programs have demonstrated that frequent access to and participation in the arts helps decrease and prevent negative behaviors in at-risk youth.
Jackson School of the Arts has grown into an organization with a reputation for excellence. We continually put a quality experience before profit which is why we keep class sizes small, frequently evaluate our programs and conduct research on best practices. We attribute our steady growth to the values we uphold as an organization.
The Jackson School of the Arts offers programs for all ages and levels in the visual and performing arts. We provide weekly classes on-site classes and partner with public schools and organizations to provide enriching out-of-school arts activities throughout the community. Our staff of professional artists, actors, and dancers are as at home in our studios as they are on stage.
For two decades, Jackson School of the Arts has been a leading provider in art, dance, and theater education. As a nonprofit organization with a mission to make the arts accessible to all children, we offer subsidized fees that are based on household income.
Founded in 2001 by Leslie Montgomery as a 501(c)(3) organization with piano instruction, Jackson School of the Arts today provides multiple forms of artistic expression. From its beginnings as an after-school option for at-risk children, the organization has evolved into a multifaceted “school” for the arts that serves families from all over South Central Michigan.
The organization began in the founders’ living room and moved to 804 S. Milwaukee Street and then to the old Longfellow Elementary School building.
In 2007, Jackson School of the Arts relocated to the 2nd floor of the ART634 building. Also in 2007, we worked closely with the JSO’s Community Music School to transfer our piano students into their music program. From that point on, we began to specialize in the visual and performing arts not already offered in our community.
With our on and off-site year round programs we reach 2,500 children. We go above and beyond to reach children and youth in need whether that need is financial, social or something else entirely.
Jackson School of the Arts has grown into an organization with a reputation for excellence. We continually put a quality experience before profit which is why we keep class sizes small, frequently evaluate our programs and conduct research on best practices. We attribute our steady growth to the values we uphold as an organization.
“On a personal level, I was a gymnast as a child and enjoyed art classes throughout school. Now, as an adult, I understand the value and impact that those experiences had in my life, and I want to be a part of bringing those experiences to children in our community,” Miller said. “My advice to others who want to get involved with their community is to determine what you’re passionate about and what strengths you bring to the table, and then find an organization that strikes the perfect marriage. Because when you find that perfect combination, your impact will be more meaningful – both personally and for the organization.
Philip J. Curtis is a partner and managing attorney of Curtis, Curtis & Brelinski, P.C., which was founded by his grandfather, former Jackson County Probate Court Judge George H. Curtis, in 1901. As a lifelong resident of Jackson County, Mr. Curtis enjoys his family, giving back and serving his community by, among other things, serving on the Board of Directors of the Purple Rose Theatre in Chelsea, Michigan, the Jackson School of the Arts, and the Spring Arbor University Foundation in Spring Arbor, Michigan, and supporting many worthwhile organizations.
“The arts serve a critical role in a community and the Jackson School of the Arts is a beacon of hope for future generations to come. I’m honored to serve as a board member and support the equitable, impactful work the JSA is making in our community.”
“Upon moving to Jackson, I was immediately struck by the vibrancy of the art scene in Jackson. It’s unusual for a small community to have such rich offerings—a symphony, theatre, museum and of course, the Jackson School of the Arts! These institutions are treasures for our community.”
“My early experiences with art have been fundamental in shaping me into the person I am today. Art has taught me to be curious, imaginative, and open-minded, and has greatly influenced my approach to creating positive change. As a lateral thinker, I am always seeking out creative and innovative solutions to complex problems. I believe that collaboration and a willingness to listen to the perspectives of others are crucial to finding the best solutions. That’s why I am committed to working collaboratively with others, while always striving to create a more inclusive and equitable world. I look forward to serving as a board member for JSA; utilizing my skills and experience to contribute to the betterment of the Jackson community.”
“I believe in supporting our community nonprofit organizations as they are an essential conduit in providing a healthy and vibrant community for all to live, work, and play. Supporting youth and the arts are two necessary pieces of that puzzle, and that is why I am proud to serve on the JSA Board and provide impact in any way that I can.”
