The Center for Creative Education (CCE), known for its art, music, theater and visual arts programs, has announced an expansion to the Village of New Paltz. This move marks a significant milestone as CCE looks to expand its presence and serve new communities.
CCE began in 1989 with just a few drum and dance programs with the sole purpose of expanding possibilities for arts-educated students. It is still located in Kingston and has grown significantly in attendance, programming, and diversity. They will now run a satellite program at Redeemer Lutheran Church in New Paltz, offering a variety of visual, media and performance arts, as well as tutoring, a chess club and family workshops.
“These areas provide a platform for self-expression, critical thinking and personal growth,” said Drew Andrews, CCE Executive Director.
Motivated to “enhance the social and cultural consciousness of young people and communities through the arts, health and education,” this expansion will allow them to fulfill this mission in new areas. CCE aims to provide affordable access to the arts with a focus on “low-income, minority, and at-risk children and youth.” They have a policy of never turning away students, and 84% of current students receive scholarship aid.
The expansion to New Paltz was inspired by the need for an after-school program for New Paltz's youth. New Paltz is home to many young people who do not have access to affordable arts and music programs. They work with the New Paltz Youth Center and its existing youth programs to provide after-school care with CCE's arts-centered initiatives.
“By providing a dedicated space for arts education, we can bridge the gap and give these students essential skills, confidence and a sense of belonging,” Andrews said.
“We observe that significant racial disparities exist within the community in New Paltz, with some marginalized groups lacking representation and resources.”
By publishing their satellite program, they aim to meet this need and address this inequality as a space for artistic growth and development. They strive to create “an inclusive environment that accepts and celebrates the diverse cultures and backgrounds of New Paltz residents,” Andrews said.
CCE recognizes the impact the arts have on young people. Through classes, students learn life skills such as teamwork and tenacity, which contribute to their mental and physical growth. Over 90% of students graduate from high school and earn a college degree.
CCE looks forward to working with the New Paltz community to make dreams come true. “Through the transformative power of the arts, we can develop future leaders and inspire a lifelong love of the arts.”
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