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ENID, OK - Enid Public Schools and The Commons celebrated the 10-year collaboration of the inter generational pre-k program on Friday, April 12 at The Commons. The program was held in the retirement community’s chapel, located next door to the main complex. A permanent sign was unveiled to commemorate the occasion.
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In the inter generational program, residents of The Commons volunteer in the classroom and serve as “grandma” and “grandpa” buddies for the children. EPS offers one of only a handful of inter generational programs known to exist nationally. Educators from as far away as Australia, Great Britain and South Africa have visited the program to learn more about the inter generational concept.
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“Our community partnerships are what set EPS apart from other area districts, and our collaboration with The Commons is one of the best,” said Dr. Darrell Floyd, Superintendent of Enid Public Schools. “This program has been recognized by early childhood professionals around the globe. It is a win-win for our students and The Commons residents. The special relationships they make benefit everyone involved. The Commons Pre-K Program is a jewel for our district and our community.”
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Steven Walkingstick, Executive Director of The Commons, agreed that the inter generational program makes a difference for both young learners and residents of the retirement home.
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“For the last 57 years as a not-for-profit faith-based retirement community, The Commons has sought to fulfill our mission of enhancing the lives of those we serve,” said Walkingstick. “Our ten-year partnership with Enid Public Schools not only helps us enhance the lives of our residents, resident families and our staff, it also allows us to serve the children and families that are now a part of The Commons’ family. We are grateful for our partnership and count it a blessing and honor to enhance the lives of future generations as well as the senior adults we serve every day.”
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EPS & The Commons Celebrate 10 Years Together
