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Whidbey Island Center for the Arts celebrates 30 years with district, previews scholarships and May events

South Whidbey School District Board of Directors · March 26, 2026

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Summary

Leaders of the Whidbey Island Center for the Arts told the South Whidbey board about a 30-year partnership, a recent $300,000 theater renovation, student-access programs (including Bridge Family Scholarships averaging $1,800) and plans to host an educational appearance by Grammy-winning bassist Christian McBride in 2026.

Representatives of the Whidbey Island Center for the Arts (WICA) told the board the community'district partnership that began in the 1980s has supported theater, music, technical training and student-access programs for three decades. "We literally would not exist without you," WICA executive artistic director Dina Duncan said, thanking the district for ongoing collaboration.

Former partners and local leaders — including Doug Kelly, who helped incorporate the nonprofit, and former superintendent Art Jarvis — described how community fundraising and shared facility planning produced a center that serves both students and residents. Jarvis, who spoke as a past superintendent, recalled the theater's role in reviving arts programs and providing educational opportunities for students.

Duncan highlighted recent investments and programs: a $300,000 theater remodel funded by the community, Bridge Family Scholarships (average award cited at $1,800; 10 scholarships awarded across Whidbey Island, four to South Whidbey High School) and a relaunch of youth-conservatory technical training with scholarships available. WICA also noted an upcoming anniversary event on May 16 and a potential educational component tied to an artist appearance on May 28, 2026.

Board members thanked WICA for the partnership and expressed interest in deeper collaboration around student programming and master classes. WICA asked the board to "save the date" for the May anniversary event and said it would follow up about educational opportunities tied to a touring artist appearance.