A non-profit based in Baltimore, YAM develops, markets and subsidizes services by professional performing and visual artists in schools throughout Maryland. YAM uses the arts to reinforce the curriculum of Maryland students by providing live performing and visual arts programs of the highest artistic level to public and private school and community audiences. They are selected on the basis of their artistic excellence and ability to communicate effectively with young people and are evaluated throughout the year by school personnel and YAM staff. The typical assembly program lasts 45 minutes and has a maximum audience size of 250 students.
All programs are curriculum-related.
To maximize the benefits of this learning opportunity, a Study Guide is sent at least two weeks prior to the program to help teachers prepare students and offer suggestions for incorporating aspects of the program into their classroom work. More workshops may be available if there is more than one artist. The workshops reinforce a particular aspect of the program and give students an opportunity to work closely with a professional artist. Residencies are comprised of an initial auditorium program for the school followed by three or more sequential workshops and offer students a hands-on learning experience. Teachers plan the projects with the professional artists to complement and enrich classroom curricula.