Arts as our bridge to Equity

This year, through Write Your Story (WYS – pronounced “wise”), we engaged 668 young children and 307 educators across 11 early childhood centers in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. WYS provides a unique set of resources and services that boost learning while increasing an essential ingredient in daily life—JOY. While children receive direct, arts-rich learning experiences, WYS also works systemically to support the adults who nurture them—educators, caregivers, and community leaders.

The equity gap starts early. Many of the children we serve come from households navigating poverty, are multilingual learners, or have identified special needs. Some have experienced trauma. All deserve access to inclusive learning experiences that affirm their worth and ignite their potential.

Through WYS, we work with school partners to identify the specific needs of each classroom—whether it’s supporting language development, building classroom connection, or introducing foundational skills in literacy and STEM. Teaching artists use music, movement, visual art, and storytelling to reach students where they are—and help them grow.

One teacher reflected:  “It’s captivating. The children are really engaged and excited to be hands-on—and then they’re so proud to see their work!”

In Germantown, teaching artist and cognitive scientist Marsha Goodman-Wood used rhythm and songs to support early literacy. In Silver Spring, dance artist Kelly King returned weeks after her residency for a family event—and was greeted with hugs, smiles, and stories from children eager to show her their art. At another site, visual artist Jamie Cowen brought multi-sensory materials to toddlers and preschoolers, helping them explore identity, science, and storytelling in ways that reflected their lived experience.

Educators participated in professional development, families were engaged through arts events and resources, and 390 Art Kits were distributed to extend learning and access beyond the school day.

This is what equity looks like in practice: co-designed programs that celebrate each child’s unique story, meet families with compassion, and build systems of support through creativity.

Thanks to your partnership, we’re not just building skills—we’re building bridges. One classroom, one family, one joyful experience at a time.

Links:

• Write Your Story 2024-25 Video Overview:
• Weaving it All Together, Childhood Education Innovations