LEAP Features 'Lights On Afterschool: Art Happens Here' At Bronx Museum

The history and importance of afterschool programming is the focus of a multiarts student performance, featuring students from six District 9 Bronx schools. LEAP (Learning through an Expanded Arts Program) proudly presents "Lights on Afterschool: Art Happens Here," a celebration of afterschool programming, presenting theater, choral and step performances by students from six Bronx schools. The event will be held Thursday, October 25, from 3:30 pm-6 pm, at the Bronx Museum of the Arts (1040 Grand Concourse, at 165th St.) and is open to the general public.

In addition, New York State Assembly Member Latoya Joyner will be presenting a $100,000 grant to LEAP for its extensive work in Bronx schools. This is the second of two $100,000 gifts from the assembly member to support area students in much-needed afterschool programming.

"Lights on Afterschool: Art Happens Here" brings together students from several Bronx schools, including JHS 22 Jordan L. Mott, Garret A. Morgan Public School 132, MS 323X Bronx Writing Academy, New Millennium Business Academy Middle School 328X, New Pathways Academy 594X, and South Bronx International Middle School 593X.

LEAP's presentation is part of a national initiative. Launched in October 2000, "Lights on Afterschool" is the only nationwide event celebrating afterschool programs and their important role in the lives of children, families and communities. The effort has become a hallmark of the afterschool movement and generates coverage across the country each year.

"It's wonderful to bear witness to the transformational power of the arts, as our young LEAP artists learn 21st century skills and exhibit leadership through the creative process," says Monique Jarvis, Program Network Manager, LEAP. "It's even more exciting to see schools collaborate towards a creative experience wrapped in a historical context. Now more than ever, we value the support from Assembly Member Joyner and others to reinforce how vital afterschool programming is to young people."

The LEAP production addresses child labor laws because during the Industrial Revolution, children were a major part of the nation's workforce, and now in the 21st century, every child deserves an education, enriched and supported by the arts. LEAP is a New York City leader in creative youth development, bringing arts-based programs to 20,000 students in more than 160 schools in all five boroughs each year.

LEAP's mission is to provide quality educational arts programs to promote access and equity for New York City students underserved in the arts. Through artistic inquiry and expression, LEAP inspires diverse school communities to be more engaged in learning and build their creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking skills.

LEAP's programs are made possible in part by The New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature, and public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the City Council.