Miami, FL – June 19, 2025 — In a milestone moment for arts education, Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) and Arts Access Miami (AAM) have launched a landmark districtwide initiative aimed at reshaping how students engage with the arts. The newly signed Letter of Understanding unites the school system with a coalition of leading community arts organizations to ensure every student—regardless of zip code—has access to consistent, high-quality arts programming.
The initiative, described as “a once-in-a-generation opportunity” by Young Musicians Unite COO Zach Larmer, is rooted in a simple but powerful premise: the arts are not enrichment—they are essential.
Arts Access Miami will now serve as the district’s official strategic partner for arts education development. The alliance includes respected organizations like Arts For Learning, Miami Music Project, and Guitars Over Guns, delivering integrated programming in music, dance, visual and media arts, and theater.
“This partnership affirms our belief that the arts are not a luxury, they’re a necessity. We’re proud to co-author and fully support this bold new model with some of the most impactful community organizations in our region.”Dr. Jose L. Dotres, Superintendent of M-DCPS
The agreement was celebrated with a formal signing ceremony on June 10, where local leaders and educators gathered to honor the initiative’s founding partners. Dr. Dotres personally recognized community contributors with on-stage awards during the event, highlighting the shared dedication driving the effort forward.
Bringing more arts programs to under-resourced schools
Piloting innovative instructional models pairing nonprofit teaching artists with certified educators
Offering robust professional development for arts instructors
Creating unified systems for data tracking and strategic growth
The work ahead is ambitious. By 2028, AAM plans to scale programming throughout Central, West, and East Miami-Dade, with initial expansions targeting the Norland and South Ridge feeder patterns.
Backed by philanthropist Daniel R. Lewis and fiscally supported by The Miami Foundation, AAM is incubated by Young Musicians Unite, a nonprofit dedicated to building sustainable arts programs in Miami schools. This structure not only supports creative programming but also addresses systemic issues—like the national shortage of certified arts educators—through partnerships with local colleges and universities.
More than a teaching tool, the arts are being framed here as a foundation for community, identity, and future opportunity. As Miami-Dade continues to break ground in educational excellence, this initiative adds cultural capital to the district’s evolving legacy.