Arts Conservatory for Teens
The Arts Conservatory for Teens (ACT), headquartered in St. Petersburg, FL, is a distinguished nonprofit organization focused on youth development, particularly in under-resourced communities. ACT is recognized for its innovative integration of performing and visual arts with advanced creative technology, serving as a transformative force in the lives of teenagers. By nurturing holistic personal growth, ACT equips young individuals with the skills necessary to thrive in their chosen careers. . https://artsconservatoryforteens.org
Vision
Arts Conservatory for Teens is dedicated to serving at-risk teens and under-resourced neighborhoods in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Sarasota Counties, Florida. ACTis a catalyst for holistic personal development and a springboard for higher education and careers, especially in the creative workforce. ACT adheres to an inclusive philosophy that all students who want high level arts education should have access to it, and that education should be fun, empowering, and culturally enriching.
Why Choose ACT?
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- Fosters Resilience
- Cultivates a Hopeful Mindset
- Enhances Communication Skills
- Boosts Self-Esteem
- Strengthens Problem-Solving Abilities
- Builds Peer Connections and a Sense of Belonging
- Develops Strong Character
- Reduces High School Dropout Rates
- Prepares Students for the Creative Workforce
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History Founded in 2012 by singer/songwriter, music entertainer, Alex Harris, the Arts Conservatory for Teens (ACT) was established with the support of business leaders and passionate community members. Recognizing a critical need for youth development in the local community,
Harris and his team crafted unique, research-based programs that have since transformed the lives of over 15,000 middle and high school students. ACT’s model stands apart from traditional after-school programs, serving as an accelerator for academic, social, mental, and economic development. ACT is a 501(c)(3) Not-for-Profit organization.
ACT’s innovative curriculum creates personal pathways to success for its students using artistic education to enhance problem-solving, improve self-esteem, and develop critical thinking skills. It continues to have a strong appeal to teenagers that is fun, educational, empowering and culturally enriching.
Activities The Arts Conservatory for Teens offers a comprehensive array of multi and interdisciplinary programs before, during, and after school across multiple sites along Florida’s west coast, including local schools, recreation centers, faith-based facilities, and arts centers. These creative arts programs provide opportunities not typically available in conventional educational settings.
Under the guidance of industry professionals, students engage in a variety of disciplines:
- Visual Arts
- Fashion Design
- Fiber Arts
- Music and Vocal Performance
- Acting
- Dance
- Video Game Design
- Game Coding
- Theatre and Lighting Design
- Creative Writing
Additionally, ACT offers life skills development in areas such as:
- Health and Wellness
- Leadership
- Financial Literacy
- Time Management
- Community Building
ACT hosts numerous performance events throughout the year, allowing students to showcase their talents and hard work. The Young Creators’ Alliance offers advanced programs, including guest lectures and field trips, with a focus on personal development through wraparound workshops on topics such as mental health and financial responsibility.
Additional Programs
ARTS MAGNET PROGRAM (AMP) AMP is an after-school program offering beginner and intermediate students the freedom to explore potential talents in performing, visual arts, and multimedia. Courses include Dance, Game Coding, Video Production, DJ Spinning, Art, Vocal, and Instrumental lessons. Classes meet 2-3 days per week, with scholarships available on a first-come, first-served basis.
YOUNG CREATORS ALLIANCE (YCA) YCA is an advanced after-school program designed for high school students with a strong interest in pursuing careers in the arts. Admission is highly competitive, with students selected through auditions. The program offers intensive workshops, masterclasses, and clinics, meeting at least twice weekly, plus additional summer intensives.
Audience Served ACT is open to all students eager to learn, with a historical focus on teens aged 11-18, particularly those from Black, Latine, and First-Generation American backgrounds. Most students come from at-risk, low-income areas of Florida, where exposure to the arts is limited by economic and cultural barriers. ACT’s Professional Network Series connects students with community leaders across various industries, offering field trips, internships, and job placements for motivated individuals
Impact
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- 100% high school graduation rate
- 90% college placement rate
- 83% of students showed increased emotional intelligence and problem-solving skills
- 96% of students demonstrated leadership potential
- 97% of students showed improved academic performance
- 96% of students reported enhanced arts-related skills
- Workshops in Performing, Visual Arts, and Multimedia
- Financial Literacy, Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Healthy Living Workshops
- Workforce Development and Life Skills Training
- 500 scholarships for at-risk students
- Impacted 5,500 families in the Tampa Bay region
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ACT’s alumni have gone on to attend prestigious institutions such as Carnegie Mellon, Boston Ballet, and Clark Atlanta University, and many are now professionals in the arts, engineering, television, advertising, and education sectors.
Recommendations for Replication or Adaptation
The Arts Conservatory for Teens offers a model for adaptation, emphasizing both outreach and a multidisciplinary approach to student development. Organizations interested in replicating ACT’s success are encouraged to reach out for more detailed guidance and should focus on more than just artistic excellence.
We recommend that programming also consider the following for implantation:
- Scholarship opportunities
- Professional development for educators
- Alumni engagement
- Community involvement
- Support from local industries
Contact
Dr. Alex Harris
Co-Founder – President/CEO
alex@artsconservatoryforteens.org
www.artsconservatoryforteens.org
727-621-3716