Create functional and artistic pieces—from drinking glasses and plates to striking glass sculptures—all while learning this ancient craft from master glass artists. This is the nation’s only free apprentice program for BIPOC youth, giving you a rare chance to dive into the world of glass art and build skills that last a lifetime! Spaces are limited so apply now!

In this one-of-a-kind, hands-on course, apprentices will:

Pull 2,100° molten glass straight from the furnace
Shape glass using ancient tools, teamwork and human breath!
Study history and craftsmanship
Learn about contemporary glass artists
Add bold colors to bring your vision to life
Explore form and design while adding your own artistic flare to this historical medium
Program Details

This apprenticeship may fulfill an academic service learning or community service requirement. Preference will be given to BIPOC-identifying youth living in Newark. Limited to 9 students per semester. Registration required.

Fall Semester

Program Dates: Wednesdays September 16 – December 16, 2026

Time: 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Holiday Showcase: Thursday, December 17, 5-7pm

Priority Deadline: August 15, 2026

Cost: Free

Students will explore a variety of processes which may include: Glassblowing, flameworking, stained glass, fusing, jewelry making and imagery on glass. A variety of special projects may also be introduced to allow participants to develop their own creative styles and product lines.

This program is open to all area high school students. Classes are on-site in our Newark studios. Students must attend and participate consistently to remain in the program.

Learn more about the YES Program from GlassRoots’ Executive Director Carol Losos, featured on NJ Business Beat.

Fall Semester – Led by Teaching Artist-in-Residence (TAR) Stella Chang

Program Dates: Thursdays September 10 – December 17, 2026

Time: 3:30pm – 6:00pm

Holiday Showcase: Thursday, December 17, 5 – 7pm

Priority Deadline: January 2, 2026

Cost: Free

Paper Mill Playhouse, students can participate in professional-level summer training programs focused on musical theater, performance, and ensemble collaboration. Some programs are by Audition Only.

Join the PRISM Club to create glass art in a safe space for diversity, inclusion and creative energy! PRISM Club meets weekly to explore glassmaking techniques including glassblowing, flameworking, jewelry-making and design, mosaics, stained glass and more. Facilitated conversations and workshops, led by our partner mental health providers, will also be integrated into the sessions. Experience the magic of fire and glass, and build community at the same time!

The PRISM Club is open to all LGBTQ+ youth, ages 18-26
Preference will be given to BIPOC-identifying youth living in Newark
No previous glassmaking or design experience necessary

Now 6 Weeks:

Cohort 1: Saturdays, September 12 – October 17

Time: 10am – 1pm

Cohort 2: Saturdays, October 24 – November 21st

Time: 10am – 1pm

Record High Summer Session is an immersive music camp for students ages 13-18 interested in exploring a career in the music industry, to take place at Prudential Center. Topics include, commercial songwriting, pop band ensemble, audio production and music business fundamentals.