Introduction to Inclusive Education Programming
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (NEWS10)– As the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) has launched its new "All-Access Nights" and "Access the Arts" education programs to increase opportunities for all children and abilities, the school has earned an inclusivity certification. According to SPAC, the programs provide free music, theatre and dance classes for students of all ages, abilities and for those with developmental, intellectual and physical disabilities.
Education Programs for All
According to the organization, the education programs are designed to provide art access to people of all ages, abilities and demographics and offers more than 1,500 classes and events for kids and adults. The Director of Learning and Engagement at the SPAC School of Arts, Jess Bien, said the classes are a transformative opportunity.
Benefits of Arts Engagement
"We believe the arts are not an optional luxury, but a necessity for individual and community wellness. Research shows that arts engagement strengthens communication skills, enhances memory and cognitive function, and supports emotional regulation—benefits that are particularly impactful for individuals with neurodevelopmental differences," Bien said. "By integrating movement, rhythm, and storytelling, our programs foster creativity, confidence, and social connection, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of the arts."
Sensory Inclusive Certification
In response to the accessible programming, the school received a Sensory Inclusive Certification from KultureCity, a national nonprofit for the inclusivity movement. As one of the only certified locations in New York State, SPAC staff were trained by doctors and neurodivergent professionals on how to recognize guests with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation.
Commitment to Accessibility
"SPAC has always been dedicated to increasing access to arts education and the live performance experience. But over the past few years, we have expanded from solely presenting music and dance classes to incubating new educational programming that prioritizes barrier-free arts access," said Elizabeth Sobol, Chief Executive Officer of Saratoga Performing Arts Center. "Becoming one of the only Sensory Inclusive Certified locations in New York State is an incredible achievement for our SPAC School of the Arts and we are proud to continue this important work serving our community."
Accessibility Features
The SPAC School of Arts now has sensory bags, equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads, available for all guests.
Conclusion
The launch of "All-Access Nights" and "Access the Arts" education programs at SPAC marks a significant step towards inclusive education programming. With its Sensory Inclusive Certification and commitment to accessibility, the SPAC School of Arts is paving the way for a more inclusive arts education experience.
FAQs
Q: What are the "All-Access Nights" and "Access the Arts" education programs?
A: These programs provide free music, theatre, and dance classes for students of all ages, abilities, and for those with developmental, intellectual, and physical disabilities.
Q: What is the Sensory Inclusive Certification?
A: The Sensory Inclusive Certification is a certification from KultureCity, a national nonprofit for the inclusivity movement, which recognizes locations that have been trained to recognize and support guests with sensory needs.
Q: What accessibility features are available at the SPAC School of Arts?
A: The SPAC School of Arts has sensory bags equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads available for all guests.
Q: How can I get more information about the SPAC School of Arts?
A: You can visit the school of arts website for more information.
