May 6, 2026

Head Start and Early Learning Bus students debut artwork

**Staff join students and guest artist Kayla Freeman Simpkins for a group photo during the April 17 art show in Inez.** *(Submitted photo)*

INEZ — Martin County Head Start and Early Learning Bus students opened their first art show April 17, transforming the Inez Freewill Baptist Community Building into a gallery of student work.

Tables and display areas filled with colorful paintings, abstract designs and personalized canvases created by preschool students, arranged in a gallery-style setting for families and visitors to explore.

Parents, grandparents and community members moved through the space, pausing to view the artwork and take photos as students pointed out their pieces and shared their work.

**Guest artist Kayla Freeman Simpkins leads Martin County Head Start and preschool students during an art show April 17.** *(Submitted photo)*

Guest artists Kayla Freeman Simpkins and Katie O’Connor spoke with students about their creative processes, offering guidance and encouraging expression throughout the event.

**Martin County Head Start and Early Learning Bus students with artist Kayla Freeman Simpkins at the art show.** *(Submitted photo)*

Martin County Head Start/Preschool Director Patricia McCoy said she was pleased with the show and grateful for the participation.

“Martin County Head Start and the Early Learning Bus program would like to thank Inez Freewill Baptist, Kayla Freeman Simpkins, Katie O’Connor, and all Head Start staff and students for helping to make our first Art Show a huge success,” McCoy said. “Special thanks to all community members and families who came by to enjoy our students’ artwork.”