When social action is rooted in core subjects across a curriculum—language arts, math, science, social studies and character education—academic objectives grow into life skills. Bringing storytelling and social action together is a unique approach that sets WCSD apart from other language arts and service learning initiatives.

“Classrooms where character education is addressed become emotionally and physically safer, which allows for greater risk taking, an essential component of learning.”¹ In addition, hearing stories about children from other cultures encourages conversations to begin about diversity, respect, tolerance and appreciation. Integrating “old” tales with “new” neighborhood stories is a WCSD hallmark that helps build understanding, respect and a shared sense of community.

In the process of developing a story for telling, students strengthen oral, listening reading and writing skills. When a WCSD Teaching Artist works in a classroom it provides an opportunity for the classroom teacher to assess learners from a variety of perspectives. WCSD programs are designed to include all students so it gives many children a chance to see their peers bloom in new ways. In one program a shy boy surprised everyone with his character voices and performance. In a WCSD class across the hall an English Language Learner spoke for the first time all year. Across town, a 3rd grader with Down syndrome performed alongside her classmates for the first time in her school career.

A father of one participant wrote, “This type of program is so important in schools. To help develop the social interactions and skills of children at this age builds a strong foundation for successful adults. The confidence my son, Sam, realized was immeasurable—something we see every day.”

WCSD is a great choice for every classroom.

¹ Elisa Pearmain, Once Upon a Time: Storytelling to Teach Character and Prevent Bullying, (Greensboro, NC: Character Education Group, Inc., 2006)