Become a Student

The first step to becoming a student is to schedule your Prospective Student Interview

What Is PHAME?

PHAME is a fine and performing arts academy where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities come together to take classes, create art, learn new skills, and build community. We offer three ten-week terms of arts-based classes each year, a summer program that changes annually, and many performance opportunities.

Our students range from 18 to 70+, and they come to PHAME from all over the Portland Metro Area (and for our online classes, students can join from anywhere!). While our students come from different backgrounds and life experiences, they are united in their interest in working hard, taking creative risks, having fun, and being part of a community that values all people.

PHAME offers both in-person and online programming.

Is PHAME a Good Fit for Me?

PHAME programming is specifically designed for adults ages 18 and up who identify as having a intellectual or developmental disability. The majority of PHAME classes focus on foundational skill building, while select classes tackle more advanced concepts. In all of our classes, Teaching Artists incorporate repetition and a variety of teaching methods in order to accommodate students’ different learning styles. In addition to focusing on the fine and performing arts, all PHAME classes incorporate skill-building around four key areas: striving for excellence, teamwork and communication, self-awareness, and self-advocacy.

PHAME students are expected to attend their classes regularly and to participate to the best of their ability. Students are also asked to comply with PHAME’s Code of Conduct.

New students will fill out a Student Information Form and are encouraged to use the accommodations & modifications section to share information regarding what they need to succeed at PHAME; this information is shared with PHAME staff. Students are also welcome and encouraged to express their accommodation needs to PHAME Teaching Artists and staff.

PHAME reserves the right to refuse service for any reason.

Prospective Student Interview

The first step to becoming a PHAME student is to complete an interview with Alex Geffel, our Enrollment & Campus Operations Manager. Alex will want to hear about you: who you are, what you love to do, and why you're interested in PHAME. It’s also a great opportunity for you to ask questions and learn more about PHAME.

To request an interview—or to set up a casual conversation to learn more about PHAME—please fill out the contact form below. You can also reach Alex directly by calling (503) 764-9718 ext. 18 or send them an email at ageffel@phamepdx.org. Prospective students have the option of an in-person or online interview.

Please do not register for classes until after completing your interview and being approved to register.