EPS expands partnership with Edmond Fine Arts

The youngest learners in Edmond are stepping into worlds where giraffes dance, music brings stories to life, and costumes spark confidence. They’re learning to speak up, listen closely, and imagine boldly thanks to an expanded program provided by Edmond Fine Arts (EFA), created in partnership with Edmond Public Schools (EPS).

This year, every pre-kindergarten student in the district will experience not one, but two powerful arts programs, Playful Dramatics and Musical Journeys, designed to unlock creativity, build confidence, and set the stage for a lifetime of learning. And while the impact is priceless, the program’s reach depends on the community’s support.

“These programs are more than just fun, they’re essential,” says Shannon Price, EFA Executive Director. “In pre-K, imagination is the foundation for learning. It’s how children develop problem-solving skills, empathy, focus, and the courage to share their ideas. The arts give them the tools they’ll carry for the rest of their lives.”

Filling a Gap at a Critical Time

Pre-kindergarten in Edmond is not mandatory or state funded, which means students don’t receive specials or enrichment opportunities outside their classroom. For many, these programs are their first and only exposure to professional arts education.

In 2023–24, EFA piloted Playful Dramatics in eight Title I schools after district leaders reported developmental delays in language, coordination, and social skills among young learners, delays worsened by the pandemic. Created and led by early childhood and theater educator Anna Wilcox, the program used imaginative play, storytelling, costumes, and movement to help students express themselves, work together, and discover the joy of performing.

Teachers saw an immediate difference: “My students loved getting to act out Giraffes Can’t Dance! Anna

was playful, professional, and amazing at keeping the kids’ attention. I love how she made sure every student felt included and helped the shy ones come out of their shells.” – EPS Pre-K Teacher

The program’s success led EPS to expand the program to all 17 elementary schools for the 2024–25 school year. Now entering its third year, it will grow again in 2025–26 to include Musical Journeys, a new music-based storytelling program created and led by Julie Atyia, offering a second creative pathway for students to explore rhythm, movement, and song.

A Partnership for Edmond’s Youngest Learners

EFA extends its heartfelt thanks to Edmond Public Schools for its partnership in making the Pre-K Arts in Schools Program possible. By opening every pre-K classroom to the arts, EPS has shown a remarkable commitment to nurturing creativity, imagination, and whole-child development from the very beginning of a student’s education.

The program is presented by ETS Enterprises and supported by The Arvest Foundation and Edmond Electric, whose generosity ensures hundreds of children can experience the joy and growth that comes from artistic exploration.

How the Community

Can Help

While these partnerships provide a strong foundation, additional supporters and sponsors are essential to sustain and expand the program’s reach. Donations cover everything from professional teaching artists to costumes, props, rhythm instruments, and lesson materials.

A gift of:

$50 provides costumes and props for one classroom.

$250 funds an entire Playful Dramatics or Musical Journeys session for a pre-K class.

$1,000 supports a full year of arts experiences for one school.

“Every dollar goes directly toward helping children imagine, create, and believe in themselves,” says Price.

“When a child sees that their ideas have value—whether through a performance, a story they help tell, or a song they sing, they carry that confidence into everything they do.”

Join Us in Building a Creative Future

The expanded Pre-K Arts in Schools Program will reach hundreds of Edmond’s youngest students in

2025–26, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, begins school with the tools to imagine, create, and thrive.

About Edmond Fine Arts: Edmond Fine Arts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing accessible arts education and fostering creativity in the Edmond community. Through classes, workshops, and community events, Edmond Fine Arts aims to inspire individuals of all ages to explore and embrace the arts. Learn more at edmondfinearts.com.