MO Fine Arts and Scholars Academy

The tremendous value of supporting our gifted learners is supported by research and by Missouri statute. The Missouri Fine Arts Academy and the Missouri Scholars Academy are just two ways in which Missouri's outstanding young artists and scholars are given an opportunity to develop their distinctive gifts with their peer group. Academy graduates develop their skills and a passion to pursue careers which ultimately strengthen the economy and quality of life for all Missourians.

For several years MAAE has included in their annual advocacy agenda a request to the Missouri Legislature to consider fully funding the academies within the state's annual budget. Without full funding, the per-student out-of-pocket costs increase, and less affluent candidates may be prohibited from participating. MAAE advocates for the funding because of its alignment with our mission: to make high quality arts education experience available to ALL Missourians, and to make this opportunity available to any student - regardless of means. The estimated cost for full funding is $750,000. Although we are pleased to report that the line item for the academies remains in the current Missouri budget, the allocation for FY21 was just $1.

MAAE will continue to educate others of the benefits of these student enrichment opportunities. We recognize the value of these events - both to the student participants themselves, as well as the larger world.