Expanding Arts Access for Rural NM Youth

Expanding Arts Access for Rural NM Youth

The New Mexico School for the Arts (NMSA) provides a unique opportunity for high school students across the state to pursue intensive arts education alongside a rigorous academic curriculum. As a free, public residential high school, NMSA removes financial barriers, making its transformative programs accessible to students from even the most remote rural communities.

At the heart of NMSA's model is the belief that arts education is essential for developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills that benefit students academically and personally. Offerings span Creative Writing, Dance, Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts, with students immersed in their chosen discipline while also exploring interdisciplinary connections.

To further broaden access, NMSA has forged partnerships with arts, youth, and education organizations statewide. This includes an upcoming collaboration with Mora MainStreet, which will bring NMSA students and staff to the 2024 Mora Fall Fest on Saturday, September 28th @Mora County Complex parking lot from 11am-4pm. There, they will share information about the school's programs and perform for the community, raising awareness of this unique educational opportunity.

NMSA's residential program accommodates students living up to 120 miles from campus, with tuition on a sliding scale to ensure no student is turned away due to financial constraints. By eliminating geographic and economic barriers, NMSA empowers rural New Mexico youth to pursue their artistic passions and unlock their full potential.

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