Glen Ridge Summer Arts Academy 2025

Glen Ridge Summer Arts Academy offers visual arts, nature study, theatre, and music in the Explorers Program for ages 6 to 8 and the Emerging Artists program for ages 9 to 11. The Advanced Concepts program for ages 12 and up includes advanced visual art, advanced music instruction, and theatre. Private lessons are also available for instrumental and vocal music.

Programs

• Explorers Program — 6 to 8 · Includes visual arts, nature study, theatre, and music.
• Emerging Artists — 9 to 11 · Includes visual arts, nature study, theatre, and music.
• Advanced Concepts — 12 and up · Includes advanced visual art, advanced music instruction, and theatre.

At a glance

• Ages: 6–18 years old
• General schedule: Morning session: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.; Afternoon session: 12 to 3 p.m.; Full day session: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

About the provider

Dr. Kimberly Burja has directed the Glen Ridge Summer Arts Academy since 2019. The New Jersey Arts Collective says the program has been a leader in non-profit arts education since 2001. Its mission statement is, "Please join us this summer to Make Art and Explore Nature Together."

• Private lessons — Younger Students (suggested ages 8 to 10); Older Students (suggested ages not fully shown in source) · Once a week; 45 or 60 minutes; flexible during the day, evening or weekends · Instrumental and vocal music lessons.
• Mentorship Program — current Freshman and Sophomores in high school · For high school students to assist teaching staff and build a portfolio.
• Internship Program — older high school (current junior and seniors) as well as college students · Paid positions assisting teaching staff in lessons and curriculum.

Registration is open. Need-based scholarships are available. Tuition discounts include SNOWDAY, EARLYBIRD, SIBLING, Zelle, and check/cash/bank transfer discounts. Mentorship and internship programs are available to current high school and college students.

What families say

“Our son had a great time. He took a sketching class and the comics class. He learnt new skills and techniques, and really enjoyed taking classes with his friends.” — Ushta from Glen Ridge

“Our daughter enjoys the art and music workshops and learns so much each year. The program is well organized and well run, and having it at Freeman Gardens is an added bonus. The beauty and serenity of the gardens is very conducive to artistic development and inspiration. We highly recommend this program.” — Gosia from Glen Ridge

“Wonderful arts program! My son loved his piano lessons last summer, and I was amazed to see how much he learned in a short period of time. His teacher was very patient, encouraging and fun. He can’t wait for summer camp again this year!” — Carola from Glen Ridge

Last updated October 19, 2026.