Norman, OK — Norman Public Schools (NPS) is proud to celebrate its continued partnership with Grace Living Center to offer a unique and innovative Intergenerational Pre-Kindergarten Program, designed to promote learning through meaningful daily interactions between students and senior residents — affectionately known as "Grandfriends."
Located within Grace Living Center, the program features two classrooms and a specially designed playground to serve the district's youngest learners. While the academic curriculum aligns with NPS’s high-quality Pre-K standards, the setting provides an enriching, real-world context for children to develop social-emotional skills, empathy and a deeper understanding of community. Spots are still available for the 2025–2026 school year. Interested families should contact the NPS Early Childhood Office at (405) 366-0531.
"Through this partnership, our students not only gain a strong academic foundation, but also experience the benefits of daily connections with older adults — something that’s truly special and rare in traditional early learning environments," said Dr. Nick Migliorino, Superintendent of Norman Public Schools.
Grandfriends participate in activities like reading with students, sing-alongs, Music and Movement Class, dramatic play, shared academic explorations and even ice cream socials. At all times, students are closely supervised by certified teachers or the Grace Living Center Program Liaison to ensure a safe, supportive environment.
Research shows that intergenerational programs help foster a sense of empathy and cooperation in young children. Participants are also more likely to feel comfortable around individuals with disabilities and develop inclusive mindsets from an early age.
A recognized leader in intergenerational care, Grace Living Center continues to set the standard in creating meaningful partnerships between generations.
For more information about the Intergenerational Pre-K Program, visit: www.normanpublicschools.org/page/intergenerational-pre-kindergarten-program-at-grace-living-center