STAR PROGRAM

The STAR program is a nationally-recognized youth program developed and provided by Trollwood Performing Arts School. This program supports at-risk youth by using the arts as a tool to help them build life skills to deal effectively with challenges. Through STAR, youth receive free arts training, transportation, class supplies, and meals. But most importantly, students receive guidance from caring adults who offer instruction and motivation, emphasizing the student’s strengths, and helping them realize and achieve their fullest potential.

The basic premise of STAR is that involvement in the arts, in a structured and caring environment, greatly improves the lives of at-risk youth. STAR targets youth, ages 6 to 18 who are facing extraordinary challenges (poverty, physical, social, behavioral and/or emotional issues, cultural disparity, low academic standing, substance abuse, and/or legal  problems) and teaches them to nurture their personal talents, ultimately increasing confidence and competence, communication skills, self-efficacy, citizenship, and character. STAR empowers young people to take charge of their own lives and inspires them to find success in school, in work, and in life.

STAR participants are integrated into all classes and performance programs of Trollwood and are not identified as such to the general Trollwood student body. This is a conscious effort to give all Trollwood participants an equal opportunity to engage and mature in positive personal expression and cooperation–hallmarks of the total Trollwood experience.

If you feel you (or someone you know) might benefit by becoming a STAR participant, please contact our Program Coordinator, Nancy Glaser, at (218) 477-6500.