Assemblyman David G. McDonough announced recently that he has available at his district office applications for the New York State Summer School for the Arts 2003 Session. This program, with its eight-component summer residential schools, is sponsored and supported by the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and is administered by the State Education Department. Recognized as one of the finest programs of its kind in the nation, over 13,000 high school age students have become part of this unique summer experience. The schools provide opportunities for all New York state students who qualify through auditions to receive the highest level of training and instruction.

The eight Summer Schools of the Arts are directed and staffed by internationally acclaimed artists and companies such as the New York City Ballet, the Philadelphia Orchestra and The Circle East Theater Company. Students work in small groups and in one-on-one sessions with professionals and with other students of similar ability. NYSSSA's goal is to provide intensive, pre-professional training programs for New York State's most gifted and motivated young artists, those who are considering careers in the arts or entertainment industries. The schools provide intensive training in an environment where students experience the rigorous discipline of the daily life of a professional artist.

The program is open to all high school age students who qualify through auditions. Tuition assistance, based upon financial need, is available. No students who qualify are denied NYSSSA's opportunities because they cannot afford them.

If you are interested in obtaining an application, please contact McDonough either by writing to 3000 Hempstead Turnpike, Levittown, NY, 11756 or by calling 731-8830.