Step It Up Program
STEP IT UP 2026-27 APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN.
mission statement
mission statement
mission statement
The mission of the Step It Up program is to support OSA’s diversity and outreach commitment by making arts education accessible to BIPOC youth from Title 1 OUSD schools.
Step It Up
Step It Up
The Step It Up program makes arts education free and accessible to underserved and marginalized Oakland youth through after school programming, onsite specialized arts classes, and industry informed career preparation.
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- Dates: November 4, 2026 - February 10, 2027
- Showcase: February 10, 2027
- Time: Wednesdays 4pm - 6pm
- Location: Fox Main Building (530 18th Street, Oakland, CA 94612)
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- Each week, specialized arts courses will meet weekly for 2 hours of free arts education to students for ten weeks.
- Completers of the Step it Up program are given priority in the OSA Admissions lottery for enrollment.
- Applications are now open!
- To apply for the Step It Up program, please complete an application below:
Questions? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ Page) or contact stepitup@oakarts.org.
class offerings
class offerings
class offerings
Dance
Students will explore movement, rhythm, and self-expression through a variety of dance styles in a fun and supportive environment. Classes may include technique, choreography, improvisation, stretching, and performance skills while building confidence, creativity, teamwork, and stage presence. No prior dance experience is required—just a willingness to move and have fun!
Instrumental Music
Students will develop their musical skills through hands-on instruction with instruments, ensemble playing, and music appreciation. Depending on instructor expertise and available instruments, students may learn proper technique, rhythm, note reading, ear training, improvisation, and performance skills. This class encourages creativity, collaboration, and confidence while fostering a lifelong appreciation for music.
Theatre
Students will discover the excitement of the stage through acting games, improvisation, character development, storytelling, and scene work. Participants will strengthen communication, collaboration, creativity, and public speaking skills while building confidence in a supportive and inclusive environment. The program may culminate in informal performances or showcases for family and friends.
Vocal Music
Students will strengthen their singing abilities while exploring vocal technique, breathing, pitch, harmony, musical expression, and performance skills. Through individual and group singing activities, students will build confidence, develop musicianship, and experience the joy of making music together. Students of all experience levels are encouraged to participate.
Fashion Design
Students will explore the creative world of fashion by learning the fundamentals of design, illustration, textiles, color theory, and garment construction. Projects may include sketching original designs, creating mood boards, experimenting with fabrics, and developing wearable or artistic pieces. This class encourages creativity, problem-solving, and personal expression through fashion.
Literary Arts (Creative Writing)
Students will develop their writing voice through creative exercises in storytelling, poetry, personal narratives, scriptwriting, and other forms of written expression. Through engaging prompts, collaborative activities, and constructive feedback, students will strengthen their communication skills while building confidence in sharing their unique ideas and perspectives.
Visual Art (Drawing/Painting)
Students will express their creativity through a variety of drawing and painting techniques while exploring elements of art such as color, composition, perspective, and texture. Working with a range of artistic materials, students will create original works while developing technical skills, artistic confidence, and an appreciation for visual expression.
Media Arts: Filmmaking
Students will learn the fundamentals of filmmaking by exploring storytelling, scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, sound, and video editing. Through collaborative, hands-on projects, students will create their own short films while developing technical skills, creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.
Media Arts: Animation
Students will bring their ideas to life by exploring the art and technology of animation. Depending on the instructor and available resources, students may experiment with hand-drawn, stop-motion, or digital animation while learning storyboarding, character design, movement, and visual storytelling. Through creative projects, students will develop artistic, technical, and collaborative skills in a fun and engaging environment.
