Student Learning in Motion: 8th Grade KC Streetcar Project Connects Classroom to Community

This fall, St. Paul’s 8th grade students took learning beyond the classroom through an interdisciplinary project-based learning unit centered on the Kansas City Streetcar extension—now running right in front of our school. Recently featured by KSHB 41 News, this real-world project invited students to explore how public transportation connects communities, supports local growth, and tells a story through data and design.

As part of the unit, students conducted field research by interviewing streetcar riders and collecting data on demographics and starting/exiting stops. Back in the classroom, they analyzed their findings using statistical methods while exploring the social and economic impact of public transit in social studies. In art, students developed marketing materials to promote ridership and community engagement.

Representatives from the RideKC marketing team visited with students to share insights on communicating with diverse audiences and promoting public services. Designers from Willoughby Design—the creative team behind the KC Streetcar brand—offered a behind-the-scenes look at visual storytelling and branding strategy. Students also connected with local musician Kemet Coleman, who composed promotional music for the KC Streetcar.

Students created original music videos designed to promote the streetcar experience. One featured example is 8th grader Rhys S.’s marketing music video, which showcases the creativity and research that defined the entire unit.

Students will present their research findings to the KC Streetcar Authority later this spring. Experiences like this reflect St. Paul’s commitment to developing confident learners who think critically, communicate effectively, and engage meaningfully with the world around them.

We are grateful to our community partners who generously shared their expertise and time with our students. Their collaboration helped bring this project to the next level!

Stay tuned as we continue to share student work from this exciting project.