Innovative theater grant goes to Discovery Elementary

What better way to teach American history than to reenact major events? Surely a student will never forget Jon Smith after walking in his shoes on stage. That's the idea behind a $2,000 grant the Issaquah Youth Theatre Foundation and Target recently awarded to Discovery Elementary.

Fifth-grade teachers will use the money to purchase two play kits complete with script booklets, a musical score and CD, and production guides. "1607: Disappearance of Jamestown" focuses on early American history, colonization, and exploration; "Rise to the Revolution" features the Boston Tea Party, the American Revolution, colonial life, and math and percentages.

Students will perform the musical plays in their classes to supplement social studies lessons. Teachers welcome the blend of history, art, literacy, and fun.

Gina Lederman, Grant Writer for Discovery's PTSA Board, and teacher Vanessa Karlsson wrote in the grant application:

"Instead of reading and listening to lessons about American History, the kids get to participate in classroom plays which integrate social studies, science, reading, writing and singing. This innovative approach will nurture the multiple learning styles of students, especially kinesthetic learners, allowing involvement for all ability levels. EVERYONE in the class gets to perform. There are no auditions. By becoming more involved in the learning process, it is expected that everyone involved will join in a community enriching, arts skill-building and memorable experience. This great way to allow integrated learning will also boost confidence in public presentation and performance."

The Issaquah Youth Theatre Foundation, in partnership with the City of Issaquah and Target, annually awards grants to support programs that train students to develop skills in any aspect of theater. The $2,000 grant was the highest funding level possible.

"We were very fortunate and received the 'biggie' from Target for $2,000 for a single school," Lederman said. "I believe it was because the project itself is a very strong one and offers so much artist potential for the students of Discovery."

Karlsson agreed: "We're really excited to try this out!"