This project is designed to complement Pennsylvania History coursework by engaging students in an exploration of the Commonwealth’s foundational role in advancing religious freedom, democratic ideals, and civic identity. Using family and community storytelling as a central approach, students examine how personal experiences intersect with key themes in Pennsylvania’s history, including William Penn’s commitment to religious tolerance, patterns of immigration, industrial growth, and social movements. The PA Story aims to situate lived experiences within a historical framework that helps students understand how individual and collective stories have shaped Pennsylvania’s evolving identity over time. 

Skills learned include: Historical analysis, historical inquiry, identity and place-based learning, linking past to present, and critical thinking.

Commonwealth of PA Social Studies Standards can be found here.

The PA Story Project supports U.S. History instruction by situating Pennsylvania’s historical experience within broader national developments, such as democratic governance, civil liberties, migration, and cultural diversity. Students explore Pennsylvania’s role as an early testing ground for democratic principles that later influenced the nation as a whole. Through personal and community narratives, students gain insight into how national history is experienced across diverse communities while recognizing their place within a shared American story.

Skills learned include: Contextual analysis, differing perspectives, Civic identity, continuity, and change.

Commonwealth of PA Social Studies standards can be found here

This project aligns with PA Civics and Government coursework by highlighting civic identity, democratic participation, and constitutional principles. Storytelling activities invite students to examine how individual rights, religious freedom, and civic responsibilities are expressed and experienced within their communities. Students will reflect on their own Pennsylvania stories and develop a stronger sense of themselves as active contributors to democratic life rather than passive observers of government institutions.

Skills learned include: Civic literacy and values, democratic values, democratic process, and civic engagement.

Commonwealth of PA Civics and Government standards can be found here.

This project provides a practical context for developing reading, writing, speaking, and research skills. Students create personal or community-based narratives, examine historical and contemporary texts, and participate in structured dialogue. These storytelling activities strengthen students’ ability to communicate effectively, consider audience and purpose, and use reflection and evidence to construct thoughtful and meaningful narratives.

Skills learned include: Research, essay writing, content creation, storytelling, and textual analysis.

Commonwealth of PA English Language Arts standards can be found here.

(Cultural Studies, Social Studies, Family & Consumer Science, etc.):

The PA Story project is designed to be flexible and adaptable across a range of elective courses that address culture, identity, community, and social relationships. In Cultural Studies and Social Studies electives, students explore how traditions, beliefs, and lived experiences influence community life. In Family & Consumer Science courses, storytelling activities may focus on family histories, intergenerational learning, and community well-being. The project’s adaptable structure enables educators to align activities with course-specific objectives while preserving its core civic and cultural emphasis.

Skills learned include: Interpersonal skills, cultural awareness, public history, and cultural narratives