BFEPE Brings Shakespeare to Bardstown Elementary

Through a mini-grant awarded to Bardstown Elementary School music teacher Yvette Martin, fifth-grade students and their families recently experienced the magic of Shakespeare in an engaging and interactive way. On March 20, Bardstown Elementary welcomed Kentucky Shakespeare (kyshakespeare.com) for a day of immersive learning and an evening of family fun.

During the school day, over 200 fifth-grade students participated in an interactive workshop led by Kentucky Shakespeare. Through performances of a comedy, tragedy, and history, students explored different genres of literature while engaging in guided discussions and hands-on activities. These workshops helped students analyze plot structure, character development, and thematic elements, connecting Shakespeare’s timeless works to modern issues like conflict resolution and healthy relationships. By actively participating in these sessions, students gained confidence in interpreting complex texts, aligning with both language arts and social-emotional learning objectives.

The excitement continued in the evening with Bardstown Elementary’s Family Literacy Night. This special event featured themed food, a book fair, interactive activities, and—thanks to the mini-grant—a live Shakespeare performance for families. Every student attending the event received a Shakespeare book, encouraging literacy and a deeper appreciation for classic literature.

Reading Shakespeare has long been recognized as a powerful tool for academic excellence. His plays and poetry enhance language acquisition, improve reading skills, and build confidence in language use. By incorporating Shakespeare into their studies, students gained a broader understanding of literature while strengthening critical thinking and analytical skills.

The Bardstown Foundation for Excellence in Public Education is proud to support initiatives like this that enrich student learning and bring families together through the power of literature. Events like these not only foster a love for reading but also create meaningful educational experiences that resonate beyond the classroom.