School Participation FAQ

Does my school qualify for The Academy fellows program?

In order to qualify for the Academy partnership, please ensure the following:

• • Instrumental music program that serves students in grades 3 or higher and has been in place for at least two years
• • Instrumental music specialist is in the building at least three full days per week
• • Ability to pay $1,500 program fee each year
• • Arts-invested school administration
• • Attendance by instrumental music specialist at five required professional development sessions per year

When are applications due?

To apply for to be a 2012–2014 Academy partner school, please submit an application by March 21st, 2012.

What happens after the application is submitted?

Within two weeks of receiving this application, The Academy’s Education and Community Associate Manager will contact the school’s instrumental music specialist. If your school meets the criteria, a site visit will be scheduled. The site visit will include two class or ensemble observations and a meeting with the prospective partner music specialist and principal. Schools selected for participation in this program will be partnered with an incoming Academy fellow.

How much does it cost?

$1,500 each year.

How long does a school have to stay in the program?

The Academy partnership is a two year commitment.

What do Academy Fellows do in the schools?

Each Academy Fellow spends most of the school year—from October through June—in a residency that focuses on student-centered, musical skill-building through interactive performance units and concerts, as well as creative approaches to skill-based work. All work incorporates the New York State Standards for Music Education as well as the New York City Blueprint for Teaching and Learning in the Arts.

Working with your instrumental music teacher, the Academy Fellow will plan instructional units that complement your existing music program through the application of creative approaches to skills-based work. Fellow-led activities may focus on composition, reflection, active listening, or improvisation, and take place during regular classroom time. Academy Fellow may also serve as coaches, working with full ensembles or with small groups and can also model on their instruments to help students improve their instrumental skills. Your Fellow will also join with his or her Academy colleagues to bring two interactive performances of classical and contemporary chamber music to your school each year, actively engaging up to 150 students per performance.

Are Academy Fellows student teachers?

No. Academy Fellows are young professional instrumentalists who have been chosen to participate in The Academy because of their high level of artistry and interest in bringing their talents into the classroom and the community.

Are Academy Fellows certified teachers?

No. Academy Fellows are not certified teachers.

Do teachers in participating schools receive professional development?

Yes. Workshops for teachers and Fellows in participating schools are held five times a year.

What other benefits do schools receive?

Academy partner schools are given a materials allowance, free tickets to select Ensemble ACJW concerts as well as other concerts at Carnegie Hall and Juilliard, and ongoing consultation with Academy staff.