During the 2024–2025 school year (and into the 2025-26 school year), the Putnam County ESC successfully implemented its TeachArtsOhio residency, providing meaningful arts learning experiences across 17 special education units. Over the course of the grant period, approximately 145 students participated in more than 215 hands-on learning sessions delivered by two teaching artists. These sessions emphasized tactile engagement, emotional expression, communication, and creative exploration, especially for students with significant disabilities and those in the emotionally disturbed (ED) unit.

Despite an unexpected mid-year artist transition, the ESC, supported by an OAC extension, successfully completed all 64 planned residency days. The program was also highlighted in a student art exhibit at the Putnam County Arts Festival, which allowed families and community members to view students’ creations and celebrate their artwork.

These activities were funded by the Ohio Arts Council.