Ryan Fields
Intern, C2C Communications Team
What happens when you combine live theater, Shakespeare, and a group of excited elementary students? A one-of-a-kind learning experience.
Thanks to the Appalachian Cradle to Career Partnership (APPC2C) and its Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) program, students at Middlesboro Elementary School had the opportunity to experience Kentucky Shakespeare’s interactive performances on Feb. 12-13.
A Hands-On Introduction to Theater
The two-day event kicked off with “Fairy Tales from Around the World,” where actors Eli and Ashley engaged fourth-grade students in live storytelling. Students didn’t just watch—they became part of the performance, learning about costumes, settings, character development, and themes along the way.
“The way she pulled us up and let us act with her was so fun!” said fourth-grader Aniya Whitley.
A Shakespearean Classic, With a Twist
On the second day, the entire school gathered for a special performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The actors kept the original Shakespearean language but paused to explain key moments, ensuring students could follow along. They also incorporated puppetry, adding humor and creativity to the performance.
“This was an amazing, rare learning experience for our students,” said Jenny McCune, IAL Elementary School Literacy Coach. “It brought literature to life in a way that was both engaging and educational.”
Why IAL Matters for Our Schools
The Innovative Approaches to Literacy (IAL) program is more than just a literacy initiative—it’s a key resource for rural schools. IAL provides books, digital learning tools, and interactive literacy programs to increase student engagement and improve reading outcomes.
By integrating theater, storytelling, and live performances, IAL brings literature to life for students, creating engaging and memorable learning experiences.
For more information, visit https://partnersrural.org/appalachian-cradle-to-career-partnership/.
Turning the Page: How Library Revamps in Harlan County Are Changing the Game for Students
If you step into Cawood Elementary today, you will find a space that looks like a vibrant and creative reading lounge for students. Colorful furniture,
Featured on StriveTogether: A Closer Look at Our Work in Appalachian Kentucky
We’re proud to share that the Appalachian Cradle to Career Partnership (APPC2C) has been featured on the StriveTogether blog in a new story titled Postsecondary
Connected and Committed: Christine and Kevin Build Bridges in Perry County Schools
Full-Service Community Schools (FSCS) thrive on relationships, leadership and heart—qualities Christine Cornwell and Kevin Smith bring to their roles every day in Perry County, Kentucky.
AmeriCorps in Action: PartnerCorps PRI Students Lead the Way in Kentucky Classrooms and Communities
In four Appalachian Kentucky high schools, AmeriCorps PartnerCorps PRI is doing more than offering students a service opportunity—it’s transforming how they see themselves, their futures,
Investing in Civic Engagement and the Next Generation: Dr. Melissa Newman to Speak at INN Days 2025
This June, Dr. Melissa Newman will take the national stage at INN Days 2025 in Minneapolis—the country’s largest gathering of nonprofit news leaders, funders, researchers,
Raising Resilient Teens: Third Event Sheds Light on the Effects of Childhood Trauma
Trigger Warning: Mentions of trauma and suicide The third event of the Raising Resilient Teens speaker series was held at Mexico High School on Thursday,