Cost
Free
Global Innovators Academy SONYC Program
Free SONYC afterschool program serving grades 6-8 in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, run by LEAP with educational arts programming focused on creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking
LEAP (Learning Through An Expanded Arts Program) provides educational arts programs that promote access and equity for New York City students underserved in the arts. The organization inspires diverse school communities to love learning and build their creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking skills. LEAP programs are school-based and serve multiple NYC schools across Brooklyn and the Bronx.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 4222 4 Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11232 |
| Borough | Brooklyn (Sunset Park) |
| Provider | Learning Through An Expanded Arts Program, Inc. |
| Website | leapnyc.org |
| Phone | (718) 788-2420 |
Age Range
Ages 11-14 (Grades 6-8)
Program Type
School’s Out New York City (SONYC)
Category
Youth Development
Global Innovators Academy LEAP program offers arts-based programming including:
- Visual Arts: Drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media
- Performing Arts: Theater, music, dance, and performance
- Digital Arts: Photography, video, graphic design, and media arts
- Creative Collaboration: Group projects and ensemble work
- Critical Thinking: Analyzing art, making creative decisions
- Communication Skills: Presenting work and receiving feedback
- Academic Integration: Arts projects that reinforce academic concepts
- Cultural Exploration: Exposure to diverse artistic traditions
- Self-Expression: Finding and developing creative voice
About Learning Through An Expanded Arts Program (LEAP)
Section titled “About Learning Through An Expanded Arts Program (LEAP)”LEAP has been transforming education through the arts since 1979, making it one of New York City’s most established arts education organizations. For over 45 years, LEAP has been committed to ensuring that all students—especially those in underserved communities—have access to high-quality arts instruction.
Mission: LEAP’s mission is to provide educational arts programs that promote access and equity for New York City students underserved in the arts. The organization believes that arts education is not a luxury but a necessity, essential for developing well-rounded, creative, engaged learners.
The Four C’s Framework: LEAP’s programming is designed to build the “Four C’s”—skills identified as essential for success in the 21st century:
- Creativity: Generating new ideas, approaches, and solutions
- Collaboration: Working effectively with others toward shared goals
- Communication: Expressing ideas clearly through multiple mediums
- Critical Thinking: Analyzing, evaluating, and making informed decisions
Arts Integration Approach: LEAP doesn’t just teach arts in isolation—the organization integrates arts with core academic content:
- Math concepts explored through visual composition and rhythm
- Science principles demonstrated through art and design
- Literacy developed through storytelling and performance
- Social studies brought to life through cultural arts exploration
Equity & Access: LEAP is deeply committed to educational equity:
- Serves schools in underserved neighborhoods throughout NYC
- Provides free programming to eliminate financial barriers
- Brings professional teaching artists into schools
- Supplies all materials and equipment
- Offers multiple sessions so students can participate regardless of schedule
School-Based Model: LEAP operates primarily within schools, providing:
- Brooklyn Schools: MS 447, MS 51, MS 88, 730K Summit Academy, 492K Arts & Letters, MS 267, MS 428, Urban Assembly Unison School
- Bronx Schools: Multiple middle schools
- Consistent presence building relationships over time
- Collaboration with school staff and administration
- Alignment with school goals and student needs
Professional Teaching Artists: LEAP employs working artists who bring:
- Professional expertise in their art forms
- Passion for teaching and youth development
- Cultural diversity reflecting student communities
- Training in youth development and classroom management
Evidence-Based Impact: Research shows students in arts programs like LEAP:
- Improve academic performance across subjects
- Develop stronger problem-solving abilities
- Show increased engagement and attendance
- Build confidence and self-efficacy
- Develop cultural awareness and appreciation
The program at Global Innovators Academy brings LEAP’s proven arts-based approach to Sunset Park, giving middle schoolers opportunities to explore creativity while building essential skills for academic and life success.
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Check Eligibility Confirm your child is enrolled in grades 6-8 at Global Innovators Academy.
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Contact the Program Reach out to LEAP staff at the school or call the main office.
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Complete Application Fill out enrollment forms with student information and art interest areas.
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Submit Documentation Provide required documents including emergency contacts and medical information.
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Attend Orientation Participate in program orientation to meet teaching artists and learn about activities.
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Start Creating Begin attending arts-based afterschool sessions.
Directoryenrollment-packet/
- LEAP enrollment form
- Student information sheet
- Emergency contact information
- Medical information and consent forms
- School enrollment verification
- Photo/media release form
- Arts interest survey
- Code of conduct agreement
Global Innovators Academy is accessible via multiple transit options:
- Subway: D, N, R trains to 9th Street (5-minute walk) or Prospect Avenue
- Bus: B37, B63, B70 serve the Sunset Park area
- Located in Sunset Park near Industry City
Sunset Park
Large neighborhood park with playgrounds, sports fields, and stunning Manhattan views
Industry City
Massive complex with food vendors, shops, and community programming
Library
Sunset Park Library at 5108 4th Avenue provides books and programs
Arts & Culture
Vibrant arts community in Sunset Park with galleries and cultural organizations
Last Updated: November 25, 2025