Performing Arts Preparatory School Legacy Fund

After nearly three years of serving the families of Southern Maryland, Performing Arts Preparatory School (PAPS) will be closing its physical location on November 7, 2025.

This was not an easy decision. Rising rent, increasing operational costs, and enrollment shifts have created financial challenges that even our most creative solutions could not overcome. For months, we’ve sought partnerships, sponsorships, and grants to help keep the doors open, but at this point, our focus must turn to closing with integrity and care.

This fundraiser will help us end this chapter responsibly and ensuring that we can honor our commitments to our staff, students, and community during the transition.

If, by some miracle, this campaign exceeds its goal or new funding becomes available, we will joyfully announce an extension of our studio or reimagined form of PAPS through virtual programming or community partnerships.

But right now, our priority is to end well, with transparency and gratitude.

How the Funds Will Be Used

Every dollar raised will directly support the immediate costs of closing responsibly:

• Final payroll for our instructors and staff who have given so much to our students.

• Student refunds and transitions for those unable to continue virtually.

• Rent and utilities for the remaining lease period and move-out expenses.

• Storage and relocation of musical instruments and studio supplies.

• Continuing community impact through online lessons, local performances, and possible future collaborations.

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Why This Matters

Since opening, PAPS has become more than a studio but it’s been a home for creativity, confidence, and connection.

We’ve:

• Created spaces for students to find their voices and passions,

• Hosted open mic nights, recitals, and showcases that brought families together,

• Supported local artists and teachers who poured their hearts into every class.

•Platformed local performers on live TV and sports stadiums

Closing our doors is heartbreaking, but this campaign ensures that we do so with the same care and integrity that built this community in the first place.

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How You Can Help

• Donate whatever you can as every dollar helps us honor our commitments.

• Share this campaign with anyone who believes in the power of the arts.

• Stay connected and we’ll continue sharing updates and gratitude as we transition.

Your support whether financial, emotional, or simply by sharing this link helps us close this chapter with dignity and hope for what’s next.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in our mission, our students, and the performing arts in Southern Maryland.

With love and gratitude,

Alli Rivera & the PAPS Family