La Mesa Elementary School students are a diverse and underserved population in the Albuquerque International District. In 2006, La Mesa Presbyterian Church and La Mesa Elementary School partnered to establish a free after school arts program for the K-5 Elementary School Students. The Presbyterian Church provides the classrooms for the arts instruction and the classes are conducted by professionals in their field with oversight of the Academy Arts Director. Since its inception this collaboration has provided much needed creative arts instruction during the school year.

 

La Mesa Arts Academy offers La Mesa Elementary School students’ opportunities for culturally relevant content, creative self-expression, and socio-emotional learning through quality visual and performing arts classes in Albuquerque’s International District. We believe that participation in culturally relevant arts programs improves creative thinking and problem solving, builds cultural awareness and self-esteem, and supports academic success for the students in our community.