School of the Arts is a stretch for Cleveland Yoga

BY: ARLENE FINE, Staff Reporter

Cleveland Yoga director Tami Schneider says it is not much of a stretch for her to be involved with the Cleveland School of the Arts (CSA).

Schneider's friend Christine Bluso, executive director of the Friends of the CSA and a yoga disciple, could not be happier. "Christine's enthusiasm for the Cleveland School of the Arts is contagious," says Schneider. "Whenever she comes to yoga class, all she talks about is the success of the school and the amazing accomplishments and dedication of the students."

Starting in January, Cleveland Yoga staff and some of its members will "adopt" the CSA. Their mission is to become directly involved in the school and serve as its advocates by raising awareness and money.

CSA, located near University Circle, is a specialty arts school that incorporates literary arts, dance, music, theater and visual arts into the school curriculum. "Students are challenged to use their right and left brains all day," explains Bluso.

Currently 600 CSA students are enrolled in grades six through 12. The majority live at or below the poverty level, yet over 80% go to college.

"Our proficiency test scores last year were just one percentage point below Beachwood's," says Bluso proudly of the inner-city's magnet school.

Bluso credits the school's ongoing success to the dedication of the staff, strong community support and involvement, and its highly motivated students.

"It was an eye-opener for us to visit the CSA," Schneider says. "We were totally amazed at the students' talent and enthusiasm."

Schneider is particularly eager to bring yoga into the students' lives. "When you practice yoga, your body is energized and refreshed, and that allows creativity to flow," she says. "I know yoga will further enhance the students' creativity and give them an outlet for relaxation they can access for the rest of their lives."

On Sat., Feb. 24, Cleveland School of the Arts will celebrate its 25th anniversary at John Hay Auditorium. The celebration. featuring Ramsey Lewis, will include a performance by CSA students. For tickets, call the CSA box office 216-421-7690.

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