Our History
For two decades, Jackson School of the Arts has been a leading provider in art, dance, and theater education. As a nonprofit organization with a mission to make the arts accessible to all children, we offer subsidized fees that are based on household income.

Founded in 2001 by Leslie Montgomery as a 501(c)(3) organization with piano instruction, Jackson School of the Arts today provides multiple forms of artistic expression. From its beginnings as an after-school option for at-risk children, the organization has evolved into a multifaceted “school” for the arts that serves families from all over South Central Michigan.

The organization began in the founders’ living room and moved to 804 S. Milwaukee Street and then to the old Longfellow Elementary School building.

In 2007, Jackson School of the Arts relocated to the 2nd floor of the ART634 building. Also in 2007, we worked closely with the JSO’s Community Music School to transfer our piano students into their music program. From that point on, we began to specialize in the visual and performing arts not already offered in our community.

With our on and off-site year round programs we reach 2,500 children. We go above and beyond to reach children and youth in need whether that need is financial, social or something else entirely.

Jackson School of the Arts has grown into an organization with a reputation for excellence. We continually put a quality experience before profit which is why we keep class sizes small, frequently evaluate our programs and conduct research on best practices. We attribute our steady growth to the values we uphold as an organization