The Arts Reach program allows MAD’s education department and its teaching artists to extend their reach to middle and high school students at the Manhattan Alternate Learning Centers and the Bronx Alternate Learning Centers. The ALC administrators and teachers understand the importance of recognizing the potential in all young people and they view this time as an opportunity to reach these students who are in severe danger of being left behind and to expose them to positive influences. This partnership provides the opportunity for students to learn about arts & design through museum visits and in-class hands-on projects that reflect MAD’s exhibitions. The primary goals for the participating students are to provide a positive environment to nurture innovative critical thinking and creative problem solving skills that encourage students’ self-confidence. The Museum is enthused by the partnership with the ALC’s, and looks forward to the opportunity to grow the program.