Students perform 'Lion King Kids' as Marion Community Schools highlights Disney grant and STEM tie-ins

Students from a district elementary production performed for the Marion Community Schools board and trustees used the appearance to highlight a newly awarded three-year Disney grant for elementary productions.

"I enjoyed this experience as being a part of the play," said Tyler, one of the students who performed. Princeton Holmes told the board the experience helped him consider future career paths: "With doing this it can involve with my career and my future life when I'm older." Indie, who said she played Timon in the musical, also spoke about the role and the experience.

Board members and staff described how the production connected to curriculum goals beyond the stage. Presenters said students 3D-printed keychains tied to characters, built backdrops and props, and sold T-shirts designed by a third grader. Trustees said the effort reinforced reading, music education and hands-on STEM work.

The board announced that teachers from the program applied for and were awarded a three-year Disney grant that will fund elementary productions over the next two school years; the district said one production is funded next year and another the following year. The presenters said the grant will let elementary students participate in staged performances, and staff noted the activities supported reading and music skills for students who are struggling readers.

Trustees thanked the students and their families. The board recording and related materials will be posted on the district website, the presiding officer said.

The board then moved on to consent items and other business.