Our Purpose
The Boston Arts Academy Foundation exists to fund the exceptional arts-intensive
educational experience that distinguishes Boston Arts Academy from other public schools.
Through philanthropy, the Foundation funds arts education: student opportunity, arts innovation, wellness, college and career readiness, alumni success, and other mission- aligned priorities that enrich the educational experience and support student achievement.
The Foundation is not intended to replace public funding or assume responsibility for
expenses that properly belong to Boston Public Schools, including expenses reflected in
the Boston Public Schools budget. Rather, its role is to elevate, enhance, and expand
opportunities in arts education beyond what public funding alone can support.
The Challenges
As young artists, many BAA students think differently, look different, and are sensitive to their surroundings. Even more, they face an uphill climb to access high-quality education:
64%
come from
economically disadvantaged families
58%
live in
Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan, and Hyde Park neighborhoods
38%
speak a language
other than English at home
35%
entered 9th grade
reading below grade level
19%
have documented learning challenges
that require instructional accommodations
Our Impact
In support of the school and the students, our Foundation has raised over $14 million to enhance their experience:
$0
Cost to BAA Students
for a conservatory quality arts and college preparatory academic education
100%
Of BAA Students
are admitted on the basis of the passion for their art, not on their prior academic or behavioral record
100%
BAA is a full-inclusion school
that celebrates students in terms of what they can do, not what they can’t do
<1.5%
BAA’s dropout rate
is much lower than the state and district averages
97%
BAA graduates
are accepted to college
Alumni Support
Boston Arts Academy believes in supporting every student, and the Foundation continues to work to support BAA alumni long after they move on to college or professional careers. Boston Arts Academy Foundation offers opportunities for networking, personal and professional development, and continued creative collaboration.
