Grant-Funded Project Connects Curriculum to Community Through “History of Kinston” Walk at Banks Elementary
A Bright Ideas Grant is helping transform required curriculum into an engaging, hands-on learning experience for students at Banks Elementary.
Mrs. Hollie Ayers’ fourth grade class recently hosted a ribbon cutting and guided tour for their “History of Kinston” walk, a project designed to align directly with North Carolina’s fourth grade social studies standards, which emphasize the study of state and local history.
“What started as a simple grant idea turned into an incredible four to five phase project,” Ayers said.
With a goal of making learning more meaningful, Ayers challenged her students to go beyond the textbook and explore the history of their own community. Students worked collaboratively in groups, asking questions, conducting research, and taking extensive
notes as they investigated Kinston’s past and the people who have made an impact locally and beyond.
Their research highlighted a wide range of influential figures connected to Kinston. Students explored the work of local artists such as Jamil Burton and Maximillion Mozingo, while also studying professional athletes including Brandon Ingram, Jerry Stackhouse, and Reggie Bullock.
Students also examined Kinston’s musical contributions, learning about The Parker Brothers and even connecting their work to someone they know firsthand, Banks Elementary music teacher Mr. William Sawyer.
“I’ve never heard so many educational questions at once.” Ayers said, reflecting on the level of curiosity and engagement from her students.
In addition to deepening their understanding of social studies content, students strengthened their literacy skills through the research and writing process. They drafted,
revised, and finalized informational pieces that now serve as the foundation of the story walk, while also creating original artwork to accompany each display.
The finished project blends multiple subject areas, including social studies, English language arts, and the arts, while also fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and student ownership of learning.
During the ribbon cutting event, students guided guests through the walk, sharing their knowledge and explaining the significance of each featured individual and topic. The experience allowed them to demonstrate not only what they learned, but how they learned it.
To conclude the event, each student placed a handprint on the display stands, symbolizing their hard work and leaving a lasting mark on a project that reflects both their academic growth and their connection to the community.
This grant-funded initiative serves as a strong example of how innovative ideas, supported by resources like the Bright Ideas Grant, can bring curriculum to life in meaningful and lasting ways for students.
