Our commitment to accessibility is strengthened through meaningful partnerships with Empire State University CAARES, Saratoga Bridges, The Arc New York, AIM Services, Community Based Services, and other regional organizations. Together, we design and deliver arts experiences that meet people where they are, respond to individual needs, and expand access to creative opportunities across our community.
Accessibility & Belonging
Across all SPAC Education programs, accessibility is foundational to our work. It shapes how we design experiences, teach, and welcome every member of our community. We believe the arts nurture wellbeing, build confidence, and strengthen connection, and we are committed to ensuring that everyone has meaningful, supported opportunities to participate.
Sensory Inclusive Spaces
SPAC School of the Arts is proudly KultureCity Sensory Inclusive certified. Our year round home includes a dedicated KultureCity Sensory Room designed to support individuals who may benefit from a quieter, lower stimulation environment. The space includes flexible seating, sensory tools, visual supports, and calming resources to help participants regulate and return to class feeling ready and supported.
On SPAC grounds, we also provide a temporary sensory space during select performances by the New York City Ballet and The Philadelphia Orchestra. These spaces offer a welcoming area to take breaks while remaining connected to the performance experience.
Inclusive Teaching & Universal Design
Our teaching practices are grounded in Universal Design for Learning, or UDL. This means we plan classes with flexibility from the start, offering multiple ways to engage, participate, and demonstrate learning. Visual schedules, choice based materials, movement breaks, varied communication methods, and adaptable pacing are integrated into our classes to support diverse learners.
All classes at SPAC School of the Arts are open to everyone and support personal goals, making them eligible for OPWDD Self Direction funding. We work closely with families and support teams to ensure that each participant’s needs and strengths are understood and honored.
Community Partnerships
Social Narrative
To support preparation and comfort, a social narrative for visiting SPAC School of the Arts or attending programs on SPAC grounds is available below:
https://venue.kulturecity.org/venues/spac-school-of-the-arts
If you have specific access needs or questions, we welcome you to reach out. We are committed to listening, learning, and ensuring that SPAC is a place where everyone can create, connect, and belong.