Why the Performing Arts? 

The performing arts build foundational skills for young learners: 

• Music builds memory, rhythm, and fluency with language. 

• Dance strengthens movement abilities and self-control. 

• Theatre expands imagination and communication. 

• Puppetry encourages social interaction and self-confidence. 

• Storytelling nurtures early literacy and prepares students for reading. 

How Residencies Work 

Wolf Trap early learning residencies use a hands-on, co-teaching model. 

• Teaching artists and educators work side by side. 

• Arts-integrated lessons are modeled in real classrooms. 

• Educators practice strategies they can use long after the residency. 

For children: Learning comes alive through joyful play, movement, and imagination. They build creativity, literacy, and social-emotional skills while discovering new ways to express themselves. 

For educators: Residencies provide practical tools, confidence, and ongoing strategies to weave the performing arts into everyday teaching. 

Residencies typically include: 

• Observation of classroom routines 

• Collaborative planning with the teacher 

• In-class sessions co-led by the teaching artist and educator 

Educator Testimonials 

“My teaching artist helped me to realize that I am capable of singing and interacting without music or a music video.”  

“We had two children who previously did not speak or interact with classmates, and our teaching artist has helped them step out of their comfort zone. They are now engaging in lessons, dance play, and socializing with their peers.”  

“The children really enjoyed it, and I loved how our teaching artist integrated our current study into the lesson plans.” 

Where We Serve 

Launched in the 2023–24 school year, Washington State Wolf Trap partners with Educational Service Districts (ESDs) to deliver programming. 

• Currently serving Early Childhood Education Assistance Programs (ECEAP) in the eastern region of Washington. 

• Teaching artists are recruited from within the communities they serve. 

• This regional focus builds strong local partnerships and highlights local talent. 

Meet Our Teaching Artists 

Our residencies are led by a talented roster of 7 professional performing artists, each bringing unique skills. They are based in the communities they serve across Eastern Washington, helping bring joy, creativity, and active learning to every classroom. 

Washington State Wolf Trap Teaching Artists

Our teaching artists have been trained by a Master Teaching Artist from the Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts.

Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts is a program of Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts.

Learn More 

For more information contact: 

Alexis Sarah 

Washington State Wolf Trap Affiliate Director 

wolftrap@arts.wa.gov | 360.228.6359