Read on to experience OFAI 2025 through the eyes of educators and artists whose renewed passion will help spark creativity in the next generation of Oklahomans.

“My experience at OFAI was truly transformative, both personally and professionally. Being surrounded by such a diverse community of creative educators reignited my passion for art and teaching. I had the opportunity to step away from daily routines and immerse myself in learning, reflection, and collaboration. Through the workshops, I not only developed new techniques but also found fresh ways to bring creativity and imagination back into my classroom. Personally, OAI gave me space to reconnect with myself, through yoga, hiking, and late-night conversations with new friends, helping me return home grounded, inspired, and full of ideas to share with my students. I’m deeply grateful for this experience and for the supporters who make programs like this possible. The impact extends far beyond the week at Quartz Mountain—it continues to ripple through my classroom, my students, and my community.” -Lexi Palmer, Tulsa Public Schools

“This was my first time at OFAI and it was a wonderful weekend. From the drive in until driving out, this space felt like a retreat. This little oasis held a surprise of connection and creativity. Throughout this workshop, the teacher was engaging, exciting, and encouraging. Her expertise and honesty paved the way for us to experiment, learn, and grow as both artists and educators! The opportunity for studio time was invaluable in affording us the time and space to work. The chance to connect and grow alongside other educators and artists was inspiring. The setting could not be more perfect! Truly, this weekend was all that it had been sold as and so much more! Not only do I plan to return to OFAI every year, but I would highly encourage anyone to attend!” -Linda Small, Enid Public Schools

“OAI has truly changed me both personally and professionally. It was such a rejuvenating and inspiring experience that reminded me why I became a teacher in the first place. Personally, it reignited my creativity and gave me a fresh sense of confidence and purpose. It was the first time in a long time that I have worked on a creative project for myself. Professionally, it’s completely reshaped how I approach my classroom. I’ve already created new lessons inspired by what I learned, and my students are more engaged and excited than ever. Seeing their positive reactions has been so rewarding. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity and for the support that made it possible. It has genuinely renewed my passion for teaching in Oklahoma and reminded me how important it is to keep growing and sharing that spark with my students. I would love to do this again!” -Kelsey Reed, Tulsa Technology Center

“I networked with others and made new friends. It was very psychologically and emotionally healing for me. It restored my inner peace and welfare. I learned a lot. I especially broke through creative blocks and was able to create new skills. I also shared and collected teaching ideas with others. The teacher and her assistant were not only my mentors and instructors, but also my peers and friends.” -Dave Eubank, Hugo Public Schools

“I recently attended the STEAMology workshop at OFAI. We learned how to integrate science and physics concepts like basic circuitry and simple machines into art projects. This is a fantastic way to get STEM into an arts classroom, and to foster PBL in science and math classrooms. I plan to share the lessons I learned with my entire school's faculty at our next professional development day. So, one funded workshop for me as a teacher is going to multiply through our entire school population soon. Then, our students will take the knowledge they learned into the world with them outside of school. The impact from funding just one teacher is an investment that grows exponentially!” Emily Nickel, Heritage Hall