The Plain Dealer, Ohio's largest newspaper, adopted the Cleveland School of the Arts in the early 1990's. At this time, CSA's Art and Photography Majors spend one or two week externships at the newspaper working with Plain Dealer graphic artists and photographers. Art, Photography and Writing Majors also participate in the Siren Workshop.
The Plain Dealer has underwritten awards, dinners, parent receptions, and scholarships for CSA students.
Since 1996 PD staff members have volunteered to paint and restore the building. In addition to this, the PD has sponsored the district Power of the PEn tournament, the Urban Nutcracker performances and the Let It Shine Benefit (along with the Friends of the School of the Arts).