Harlem School of the Arts
645 St. Nicholas AvenueNew YorkNY10030212-926-4100, ext. 310212-491-6913

Program: The Bridge Program Year Started: 1992 Focus: Multidisciplinary Arts Youth Served: 25 Ages: 9-10 Budget: $35,000 The Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) offers programs to people of all ages. The Bridge Program is for students in grades 4 and 5, many of whom have participated in HSA's school-based program. The school program provides children in grades 1-3 with experience in dance, music, theater and visual arts. The Bridge Program helps these children make the transition to the School of the Arts, where they can take at least two classes a week after school. While participants are not required to audition, the classes are rigorous, with artist/teachers stressing consistency and effort. Students are given weekly homework assignments. There are ample opportunities for children to perform and exhibit their work. In an effort to provide these young people with role models, HSA gives children the opportunities to work with people of color in a professional setting.