Registration is now open for the South Arkansas Arts Center Arts Academy’s fall 2020 semester.

In response to the global pandemic, the El Dorado center is offering a blend of both virtual and in-person classes, providing a variety of choices for students.

Classes begin the week of August 31-September 4, and registration can be completed online at saac-arts.org. SAAC’s full roster of classes includes instruction in visual art, graphic design, animation, dance, theatre, and music. SAAC will follow a strict set of COVID-19 guidelines, following guidance from the Arkansas Department of Health for each discipline of study.

“The South Arkansas Arts Center remains committed to working within the guidelines from the state of Arkansas to create safe, accessible classes in the arts for our community,” said executive director Laura Allen. “We hope that by creating a menu of varied options for our students, we can continue to meet their needs, even under these unusual circumstances.”

For the fall 2020 semester, class sizes will be limited to ensure social distancing, and times will be staggered to limit the number of students entering and exiting the building simultaneously. Most classrooms will be used for only one group of students each day, and they will be cleaned before and after each class. Teachers, staff, and students will be screened daily for symptoms and temperature, and masks are required.

For families who prefer a virtual option, Maria Villegas will offer instruction via Zoom for grades 2 and up. Mike Means will also offer Zoom instruction for art projects that can be completed on the iPad for all ages.

In-person art instruction will be available in visual art with Katie Harwell for pre-K through first grade, in graphic art with Mike Means for second grade and up, and in digital storytelling/animation with Katy Callaway Hayes for grades 5-8.

Classes in ballet and lyrical dance with Stephanie Lowrey and Elizabeth Wood will be available for all ages. Hannah Faith Davis will offer theatre instruction for pre-K through 7th grade, and Lynn Gunter will lead the Teen Drama Club. Private piano instruction is available on a one-on-one basis with Kordelia Leggett.

Registration for all classes can currently be completed online at saac-arts.org.

Class sizes are limited, and spots are available on a first come, first serve basis.

Scholarships are available. For questions about registration, COVID-19 adaptations, or virtual options, call 870-862-5474. SAAC is located at 110 East Fifth Street, El Dorado, Arkansas.