Lyric Opera of Kansas City will continue its partnership with Kansas City Public Schools during the 2026–27 school year, placing professional teaching artists in four KCPS schools for yearlong performing arts residencies.

The program will provide approximately 300 students with instruction across 14 course sections in choir and theater at Central High School, Lincoln College Preparatory Academy High School, Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Middle School and Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts.

Rather than one-time performances or school visits, the in-school residency courses place Lyric Opera teaching artists in classrooms throughout the academic year. The artists provide direct instruction while also contributing to curriculum development and program administration.

“Arts education is most meaningful when students have the opportunity to engage with it consistently and deeply,” said Deborah Sandler Kemper, general director and CEO of Lyric Opera of Kansas City, per an official press release. “Through our partnership with Kansas City Public Schools, our teaching artists become part of the classroom, working with students throughout the school year to develop their skills, creativity, and confidence.”

The residency program also connects students with professional performing arts experiences outside the classroom. Students have opportunities to attend fully staged Lyric Opera productions at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, experience touring opera performances at their schools and meet professional opera singers through classroom visits and customized curricular resources.