Making the arts accessible, one scholarship at a time

From Broadway Camp to Acting Academy, the Collaborative School of the Arts empowers students to pursue their dreams, regardless of financial need

SCHENECTADY — Arts education is often one of the first areas affected when families face financial stress or schools face budget cuts. The Collaborative School of the Arts model of low-cost participation plus scholarship support means that those barriers are reduced.

CSOA consistently displays a commitment to equity in the arts and a promise that creativity should never be limited by circumstance. By keeping the arts open, inclusive, and community-driven, CSOA is helping the next generation of performers, creators, and storytellers find their voices through their accessibility and scholarship program. 

“I believe that scholarships are essential to opening our programs to all students who want to be a part of CSOA. As a student in CSOA, I relied on scholarship opportunities to be able to attend the Broadway Camp program, and the team at Proctors Collaborative always made sure that I was supported financially so that I could pursue my dreams of being on stage. It means the world being able to give back to students that are in a similar situation I was when I was their age,” said Education Programs Manager Jacob Frenyea.

By ensuring that financial need does not block access, CSOA helps ensure that the next generation of artists, performers, creators, and vision-makers are drawn from all backgrounds. It’s a vital resource for the Capital Region, and one worth supporting, sharing, and celebrating.

“I am so grateful to be part of an organization that invests in our community’s future by offering scholarships that make our programming accessible to all,” said School Programs Coordinator Hannah DeStefano.

Since 2007, the school has granted more than $750,000 to schools and individuals to participate in its programs. From On-the-Go Touring Productions, Student Matinees, and Broadway Camp (plus many more), these programs are life-changing and build confidence, communication skills, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

During the 2024-25 school year, CSOA gave over $80K through their scholarship program.

“At CSOA we believe the arts should be accessible to everyone. These scholarships help us open doors for students and bring meaningful, lasting experiences to schools,” said Assistant Director of School Programs Shai Davenport.

CSOA, part of Proctors Collaborative, was built on a simple but powerful belief: everyone deserves the chance to explore the arts. Whether a student dreams of dancing under the lights, filming a short movie, or writing the next great musical, CSOA makes that possible — no matter their financial circumstances.

To learn more visit collaborativeschoolofthearts.org. Fuel our efforts to connect students to their spark and make a scholarship donation today!