Summer Arts Academy 2023
MMSD's Summer Arts Academy offers a wide range of programming for students of all ages!
MMSD's Summer Arts Academy programming is geared toward self-expression, self-identity and growing students' interests in arts experiences through unique, inspiring learning opportunities. In collaboration with Madison-area community arts organizations and teaching artists, we seek to offer robust arts programming in visual and performing arts, digital music, media production, acting/drama and theater, and more.
Questions? Email us at
mmsdsummerarts@madison.k12.wi.us
K-12 "Community Seat" Program
FREE Summer Arts Classes Taught by Madison Artists - Apply Now!
Are you looking for fun summer programming to engage and inspire your student? The MMSD Summer Arts Academy “Community Seat” program offers an innovative way for students to be involved in diverse arts experiences - and it’s free for families! Your student can discover new interests or take their skills to the next level.
Seven Madison-area arts organizations have reserved spaces just for MMSD students to participate in their summer programs. Research has shown that participating in educational arts experiences has a positive impact on students’ academic and social-emotional outcomes. Programs are offered for a variety of age groups, and run at different times throughout the summer.
Community Seat Program Application
Application Deadline: 11:59 p.m. on May 23
Participating Organizations and Classes
- ARTS for ALL Wisconsin
- Black Star Drumline
- Drum Power
- Madison Ballet (at Lussier Community Center)
- Madison Circus Space
- Madison College: Technical Theater
- Madison Youth Choirs
- The House, Inc.
ARTS for ALL Wisconsin
Black Star Drumline
Drum Power
Madison Ballet (at Lussier Community Center)
Madison Circus Space
Madison College: Technical Theater
Madison Youth Choirs
The House, Inc.
Program Details
In partnership with the MMSD Department of Engagement, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (EDEI), the Department of Curriculum & Instruction, the Summer Arts Academy - Arts Community Seat Program is designed to expand access to visual & performing arts summer programming for selected K-11 MMSD students at no cost to them or their families.
Current K-11 students are encouraged to apply, with a priority for those who are traditionally underrepresented in community arts access, including those who identify as students of color and/or qualify for school fee waivers. Families must apply by Tuesday, May 23. Applications will be reviewed based on a scoring rubric and families will be notified by late May if their application was accepted into the Community Seats Program.
Participating organizations will be responsible for students as families will enroll directly with the provider. Transportation and nutritional needs will need to be organized outside of MMSD Summer Arts Academy infrastructure and schedules.
MMSD K-12 Programming
Classes and programs are offered in partnership with MMSD Summer Semester, Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR), Summer Recreation & Enrichment Center (SREC), and Youth Resource Centers (YRC) offerings.
K-8 Students
- A K-8 morning residency program will engage students registered for summer semester.
- Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR) and Summer Recreation & Enrichment Center (SREC) aftercare programs will provide additional programming for elementary students.
- Youth Resource Centers (YRC) will provide afternoon programming for middle school students.
- Community seats program
High School Students
- Summer courses offered for credit
- Community seats program