Litnerd: Bringing Stories to Life with Live Actors in Classrooms

A Concerning Trend in Childhood Literacy

A significant portion of children are struggling with reading. Data from 2019 indicates that approximately one-third of fourth-grade students in the United States do not meet expected reading proficiency levels. These scores have remained largely stagnant for years, signaling a need for innovative approaches.

Introducing Litnerd: A Novel Educational Approach

Litnerd, a New York City-based company, is pioneering a new method to enhance student engagement with reading. Their strategy involves integrating professional actors into the learning process, utilizing live streaming to bring book scenes to life.

How Litnerd Programs Function

Litnerd’s educational programs consist of four one-hour sessions, held weekly. Students engage with the assigned book independently between sessions. During each weekly session, an actor streams into the classroom to re-enact key scenes.

These actor segments can be either pre-recorded or presented live. Live sessions often incorporate choose-your-own-adventure elements, empowering students to influence the narrative’s direction.

A Nostalgic Resonance

The concept evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of “auditorium days” in school. These special occasions, featuring guest performers like singers or storytellers, created memorable and unique learning experiences.

Expanding Content Through Publishing

While currently utilizing existing stories, Litnerd is developing its own publishing arm. The intention is to create books that resonate with different age groups (Pre-K through fifth grade).

These publications will prioritize diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all children can identify with the characters and narratives presented.

From TinyBroadway to Litnerd: A Shift in Focus

Litnerd evolved from a previous venture called TinyBroadway, which also featured actors engaging with children online. However, TinyBroadway catered to individual families (B2C).

Litnerd strategically transitioned to a business-to-business (B2B) model, partnering directly with schools to broaden its reach and maximize its educational impact.

The Motivation Behind the Transition

Litnerd CEO and founder, Anisa Mirza, explained the rationale behind this shift. She highlighted that the vast majority of American families – approximately 95% – cannot afford homeschooling.

Mirza emphasized that for many parents, particularly those in Title 1 schools, school provides essential childcare, enabling them to work. She believes that impactful educational disruption requires integration within the existing school system and school funding.

Navigating the Educational Landscape

Implementing Litnerd’s programs within schools presents logistical challenges. Many districts require collaboration with pre-approved vendors.

Since gaining approval from the New York City Department of Education, Litnerd’s programs have been experienced by over 14,000 students, with projections indicating a doubling of this number in the near future.

Integrating Social and Emotional Learning

Litnerd’s materials are designed to align with social and emotional learning (SEL) practices, which are increasingly emphasized in U.S. schools.

The programs address crucial skills such as self-awareness, responsible decision-making, and social awareness, fostering holistic student development.

Comprehensive Lesson Plans

Each book is accompanied by a detailed lesson plan. These plans include student worksheets, activities, and suggested dialogue to guide teachers in highlighting key learning objectives.

Prioritizing Teacher Workload

The company is keenly aware of the demands on teachers’ time. Lesson plans are intentionally designed to minimize additional workload, offering a streamlined and efficient learning experience.

Mirza acknowledges the importance of SEL for educators as well, aiming to provide teachers with a rejuvenating and supportive experience.

Opportunities for Actors

Litnerd also presents a valuable opportunity for actors, particularly as the live performance industry recovers. Actors currently conduct sessions remotely, with plans to establish co-working studio spaces as the company expands.

Future Expansion

Litnerd is currently focused on expanding its presence within New York City schools. Further growth will be guided by the unique processes and requirements of different regions.