Episode Details

Kentucky recently announced it is developing a statewide knowledge-building K-8 social studies curriculum. Teachers in the Bluegrass State have already been making the transition to follow the science of reading, to positive effect, but leaders know that literacy development doesn’t just happen in English language arts. Rich content in social studies is a big part of the puzzle.

In this episode, host Barbara Davidson discusses the importance of content knowledge with Micki Marinelli, the Chief Academic Officer at the Kentucky Department of Education.

“It's so easy for us to feel like it’s the ELA teachers that have ownership over literacy strategies and instruction. But I think that we're seeing more and more—and that what's so important for us to acknowledge—is that we are all teachers of literacy,” Micki says.

Kentucky’s approach to literacy is rooted in the science of reading, with a strong emphasis on building students’ background knowledge alongside foundational reading skills. Micki argues that literacy cannot be separated from science and social studies, particularly in the elementary grades. While these subjects are often marginalized, they provide the knowledge students need to read, write, and think critically across disciplines.

Statewide investments in professional learning and high-quality instruction guides have helped educators recognize knowledge building as an essential component of reading comprehension. As a result, students are engaging in richer discussions, recalling meaningful content, and sharing what they have learned with their families.

The state’s broader strategy has also included developing curriculum guidance, creating resource evaluation tools, and involving teachers in curriculum selection. Early results are promising: districts with higher rates of science of reading training are seeing improvements in reading proficiency. Ultimately, Micki emphasizes that literacy is every educator’s responsibility and that strong reading skills, grounded in knowledge-rich instruction, prepare students not only for academic success but for meaningful opportunities throughout their lives.

This podcast is produced by Knowledge Matters on behalf of the History Matters Campaign. Follow Knowledge Matters on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter/X. Search #historymatters to join the conversation.

Production by Tressa Versteeg. Original music and sound engineering by Aidan Shea.

Resources:

• “KDE Unveils New Social Studies Curriculum During Superintendent’s Webcast,” Kentucky Teacher, a publication of the Kentucky Department of Education. July 2026.