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The Urban Assembly School for the Performing Arts Home

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About Us, Mission, And Vision Statements

ABOUT US: 
The Urban Assembly School for the Performing Arts (UASPA) was founded in 2006 as part of the Urban Assembly Network. The Urban Assembly is a non-profit organization whose mission is to establish and support small public high schools with exciting curricular themes and a hands-on approach to instruction. The Urban Assembly network provides instructional and operational support to our school. To learn more visit: www.urbanassembly.org
 
At UASPA, we believe that all students deserve access to a rigorous academic and artistic high school experience; therefore, we do not screen or audition our students and we attract students from all five boroughs of New York City, who may not have had previous access to artistic study. We have partnerships with key organizations, such as Tony Bennett Foundation/Exploring the Arts, Martha Graham Dance Company, and EPIC Theatre Ensemble, that support our teachers with improving instruction by infusing the arts into their classrooms and providing students with exceptional art and career based learning experiences. We are also partnered with College Bound Initiative (CBI), a vital partner, that enables us to maximize students' college awareness, access, placement, and financial aid awards.
 
At UASPA, we believe that “education equals options,” meaning that students’ education and knowledge will provide them with the skills necessary to pursue the post-secondary path of their choice, whether that be in the arts or in another field. Our staff reflects these principles; for example, the Principal is a dancer who pursued a career in education, the Guidance Counselor is a vocalist who pursued a career in counseling and teachers who have backgrounds in all areas of the arts who pursued a career in teaching.
 
OUR MISSION:
The Urban Assembly School for the Performing Arts (UASPA) aims to sustain a challenging college-preparatory curriculum that infuses the performing arts into all aspects of the academic experience.  By using the arts as a teaching tool and providing students with the means to express themselves, UASPA will breathe life and creativity into all subjects and build confidence in all members of our school community. We will use the cultural and professional resources of New York City to ensure that students receive a rigorous education which exceeds state standards, are successful in earning a college degree, and have a vision for what their future holds.
 
OUR VISION:
Underlying our core curriculum is the belief that the performing arts will act as a tool for differentiated instruction and a catalyst for academic excellence for all students.  Graduates of Urban Assembly School for the Performing Arts will be critical thinkers and problem solvers who can discuss their ideas about Mathematics, English, Science, History, Foreign Language and the Performing Arts with confidence and insight.  Students will be a part of a personalized learning community in which all members of the faculty, staff, and parents contribute to the academic success of our students.  Students will take ownership and be informed about their academic progress, strengths and areas of development so that they can be active participants in their education.  Finally, our students will be valuable contributors to a community of artists, students and educators.  
 
 
Read More About Us and Mission Statement

At A Glance

  • getinvolvedAccess for ALL We are the only non-auditioned performing arts HS in NYC
  • PartnershipsKey partnerships help enrich our academics and arts programs.
  • Rigorous Academics100% of our graduates are accepted to college
  • College BoundWe offer 5 AP classes, dual enrollment classes with SUNY, and have a National Honor Society Chapter.
  • Rigorous ArtsA four year rigorous arts curriculum in dance, theatre, and vocal
  • brainstorm Social-EmotionalDevelopment We offer a four year Resilient Scholars Program to provide our youth with academic and life skills necessary for post-secondary success.

Principal's Message

Principal's Message Image
Dear UASPA Families,
 
As we are enjoying the last few days of summer, I want to take a moment to introduce myself to my new family and community! I came on board January 3rd and served as interim acting principal.  I’m excited to share, I will continue my role as principal of Urban Assembly school for the Performing Arts!  I’m excited to partner with you, my families to bring about growth and new opportunities for your teen.
 
My journey as an educator began as a classroom teacher many years ago. My passion for teaching and developing students then transformed into a new passion of developing teachers and staff and supporting families and communities.  I've worn many hats; serving as team leader, instructional coach, assistant principal, and an Interim-acting principal.
 
As a school leader, my goal of making sure all of my students have opportunities and access to better choices in life is what is most important, and education is the gateway. If I can contribute to a student believing that he can change his destiny, despite his circumstances, I am content.
 
2023-2024 is a year of change for the better! I'm excited about the collaboration with HSA which will bring about new opportunities and exposure for my students.  I see growth in numbers for UASPA. Students will become change agents in their families and communities through their passion of the arts. First day of school begins on Thursday, 9/7, our instructional day for everyone begins at 8:30AM and ends at 2:50PM.  We’re on the 100% Attendance Challenge everyday!
 
In the words of Nelson Mandela, “Education is the most powerful tool to change the world.”
 
Yours in this journey,
 
Roxanne L. Brown
Principal
Read more Principal's Message

Recent News

2023 UASPA Winter Showcase

The 2023 Winter Showcase is quickly approaching. It will take place on 2 nights, Wednesday, December 20th, and Thursday, December 21st. There are only 100 seats available for each night, so please be sure to purchase tickets early as we are expecting sold out shows. View below for more information.

UASPA OPEN HOUSE FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS

UASPA is having an evening open houses for rising 9th grade scholars and their families interested in the arts. Please click below for more information and to RSVP.
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