About Us
A Destination for Youth Transformation
The Jacksonville Arts and Music School, affectionately known as JAMS, is a Creative Youth Development program with a mission to empower the creative leaders of tomorrow... today. Since 2014, JAMS has cultivated thought innovation by using the arts as the conduit for leadership development in Jacksonville, Florida. Our commitment lies in providing opportunities for personal growth, cultural exchange, and social inclusion, ultimately shaping competent leaders for a brighter future.
2014 | The Birth of JAMS
Inspired by Ted Stein's vision for an arts-based non-profit, Alexandra Stein pursued her M.A. in Arts Administration at SCAD. This same year marked the official founding of the Jacksonville Arts & Music School, with the organization receiving its articles of incorporation and being granted 501(c)(3) status.
2015 | A Place to Call Home
Ted Stein secured a new home for JAMS by purchasing the former Seafarers Union building, a 17,000 sq. ft. facility located at 3315 N. Liberty Street. Renovations began, preparing the space to welcome its first cohort of students.
2016 | First Day
On September 5, 2016, JAMS opened its doors to the inaugural group of students, affectionately dubbed the "JAMS Originals," and the organization embarks on its mission "to empower the creative leaders of tomorrow."
2017 | Leader of Creators
In a pivotal moment for JAMS, the Board appointed Jason A. Peoples as the new Executive Director. With his wife, Tori Peoples, by his side, Jason set out to transform JAMS into a non-profit powerhouse focused on Creative Youth Development and leadership. JAMS experiences a significant enrollment boost and welcomes students to its first Summer Camp Intensive. This program more than doubled the school's enrollment in just seven months, introducing four core disciplines: Dance, Film, Music, and Visual Arts.
2018 | Partnership
Building on its success, JAMS partnered with the City of Jacksonville's Kid Hope Alliance. This collaboration amplified the organization's mission, allowing it to reach and support even more youth in the community.
2019 | Built to Last
In a significant milestone, JAMS underwent its first large-scale renovation, thanks to major contributions from the Florida Blue Foundation and Delores Barr Weaver. These improvements expanded usable space to approximately 12,000 sq. ft., facilitating the recruitment of the "JAMS 100," which today serves as one of four flagship programs.
2021 | Hope in Year 5
Celebrating its five-year anniversary, JAMS embraced its foundational philosophy: "Build it, and they will come; build it right, and they will stay." By this point, JAMS had established itself as a leading arts education and leadership development institution. It had become a destination for youth transformation, nurturing young problem-solvers, creative thinkers, and innovative leaders.
2021–Present Day | What a Leader
Continuing its mission, JAMS launched the inaugural "What A Leader" competition. This annual event tests students' skills in confidence, critical thinking, interpersonal communication, and professionalism, underscoring the vital role the arts play in cultivating the next generation of leaders.
Through dedication and innovation, JAMS has not only survived but thrived, consistently expanding its impact on the community and fostering creativity in young minds.