By Kimberly Burk

For Edmond Life and Leisure

Josh Delich said he is still observing, still getting to know the community since becoming superintendent of Edmond Public Schools in April. But one thing stood out immediately."It’s the remarkable community support, the partnerships, the collaboration and pride this community has,” Delich said. "It really is a testimony of why Edmond is the premier school district in the state. I picked up on that right away.”Campus visits are helping him get to know students and employees and better understand the district’s strategic plan, Delich said."

I try to intentionally do visits every week, if not multiple ones every week,” Delich said. He said he walks through the buildings with campus principals and visits classrooms. And his instructional leadership team holds meetings on the various campuses.

"EPS is a remarkable school district with outstanding, hardworking people from all levels and all positions,” he said. "It’s been super exciting to see where the future is going to go.”

Transitions can be difficult, Delich said, "but my executive leadership team has been a huge support. Our school board has been really supportive with this transition, really insightful.”

The school board and the administration are constantly looking toward the future, Delich said."Education is just changing so much. We are going to continue with that forward thinking and planning. Any time you can help improve the culture and climate of where you are at, that’s something so beautiful and exciting.”

One priority is to work together to serve all students, Delich said, including those who need academic and behavioral intervention and support.

"For me, education is a calling,” Delich said. "You have the ability every single day to make a change in somebody’s life and their future.”

Delich said he still thinks of himself as a teacher.

"In this role, every day, you have an opportunity to teach, and to learn from others.”

Delich brings to Edmond 21 years of experience as an educator. He began his career as a middle school teacher and coach in Texas, then moved into administrative roles in Texas and his native Minnesota. He served as an associate superintendent in Anoka-Hennepin Public Schools, Minnesota’s largest public school district, and was an assistant superintendent at St. Paul Public Schools, Minnesota’s second-largest district.

Delich holds degrees from Concordia University, the University of Texas at Arlington and the University of North Texas. He and his wife, Desirae, are the parents of three daughters.

"Family means the world to me, so I’m trying to spend as much time as I can with my kids’ activities,” he said.

Delich said he also enjoys "reading, writing and researching, and figuring out how to improve in every capacity.”

He also likes to travel, and "health, exercise and sleep, I’m big into those.”

As for their move from Minnesota, "we all do not miss the snow blower and the cold,” he said with a laugh.

 "We of course miss the family that’s up there.”

The holiday season is officially here, and Edmond is overflowing with festive fun for families of all ages. Whether you’re looking to make magical memories, enjoy the crisp winter air, or keep your celebrations budget-friendly, there’s something for everyone. From dazzling light displays to hands-on history and outdoor adventures, Edmond shines bright all season long.

1. Experience Luminance: An Enchanted Stroll at Mitch Park  A must-do holiday outing, Luminance is Edmond’s premier walk-through light display at Mitch Park. Over 30 glowing sculptures illuminate the trail, creating a magical backdrop for family photos, evening strolls, and holiday tradition-making. It’s the perfect free activity to enjoy again and again throughout the season.

2. Take a Self-Guided Tour of Edmond’s Colorful Murals Edmond’s public art scene comes alive with vibrant murals scattered throughout the city. Bundle up, grab hot chocolate from a local café, and enjoy a self-guided mural tour. Kids love finding each design, and parents will appreciate the built-in photo ops. Use the Visit Edmond map to guide your route!

 3. Explore the Edmond History Museum & Museum Store Step back in time at the Edmond History Museum, where families can enjoy engaging exhibits and hands-on activities. Admission is always free, making it an easy and educational stop this holiday season. Don’t forget to browse the charming museum store for fun Edmond and Route 66 gifts.

 4. Visit 1889 Territorial School No holiday is complete without a stop at the best one room schoolhouse in America! Stop by between 1-4 pm any Saturday to meet the Territorial teacher, ring the school bell, learn history and do crafts.

 5. Hike Edmond’s Miles of Scenic Trails Cool days and crisp air make winter the perfect time to explore Edmond’s beautiful outdoor spaces. From the paved paths at Mitch Park to the wooded trails at Arcadia Lake, your family can enjoy an active, screen-free adventure — all for free. Bring the dog, pack snacks, and soak in the winter scenery.

More Holiday Fun for Families in Edmond

Looking for even more festive activities? Here are a few more family favorites happening around town this season:

• Miracle on 2nd Street – Holiday events, shopping, Santa visits, and cozy downtown charm.

• Holiday Markets & Local Shopping – Find unique gifts while supporting small businesses.

• Carriage Rides & Santa Sightings – Seasonal magic the whole family will love.

• Live Music & Performances – Enjoy holiday concerts, community events, and arts programming.

Make Edmond Your Family’s Holiday Hub

Whether you’re planning your weekend adventures or building new holiday traditions, Edmond offers countless ways for families to celebrate — many of them completely free. Grab your jackets, gather your loved ones, and explore the best of this joyful season right here at home.

For more holiday events, festive food stops, and family-friendly fun, visit VisitEdmondOK.com and start planning your holiday cheer today!

Experience an old-fashioned Christmas as you "Hop Around” to three historical sites near Stephenson Park in Edmond, OK on Sat, Dec 6th from 3-7:00 pm. 

Stroll to three historical places in Edmond for FREE holiday crafts, Santa photos, and old-timey atmosphere. The three locations are within a few blocks of each other, near Downtown Edmond.

Locations and activities include:

Edmond History Museum (431 S. Boulevard): Toy trains, miniature dioramas, and children’s activities. Plus, view the museum exhibits, including Edmond Fire Department History and Close to Home: Vietnam’s Effect on Edmond.

1889 Territorial Schoolhouse (124 E. 2nd St): Enjoy old-fashioned games and crafts.

Victorian Rodkey House (410 S. Littler): New--the house will be decorated like Santa’s workshop, including Santa photos and Christmas activities.

Model trains are provided by Oklahoma N-rail and Marcus Mead is bringing his hand-made architectural dioramas. The museum has also arranged for snow to fall every hour on the hour! 

Holiday Hop is sponsored by Regent Bank and hosted by the Edmond History Museum, Edmond Historical Preservation Trust, and the Edmond chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Old-fashioned and homemade presents are available in the museum gift shop for purchase. Attendees are invited to save 10% on all gift shop purchases. Local businesses along 5th street will be offering holiday shopping specials.

Further Information: Edmond History Museum hours are 10:00 to 5:00 PM Mon – Fri and 1:00-4:00 Sat. Admission is free. More information at EdmondHistory.org or by calling 405-340-0078. The 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse is open yearly on Saturdays from 1-4:00. More information about the Schoolhouse can be found at edmondhistoricaltrust.org. Located at 124 E. 2nd Street, Edmond Ok 73034.