Kate Yeager (Submitted photo)
The Dreaming Forward initiative supports high school students in developing leadership skills, impactful decision-making, and a sense of responsibility
The Montgomery County Intermediate Unit partnered with Nashville-based singer-songwriter Kate Yeager to inspire student voices at the third session of Dreaming Forward, a leadership initiative that brings together students from 13 Montgomery County school districts. The event, held at MCIU, focused on the power of storytelling as a tool for leadership, connection, and personal growth.
Yeager, known for her emotionally resonant songwriting, shared her personal journey in the music industry, including the viral success of her song Fat, and discussed how vulnerability and authenticity can foster meaningful connections. Her message encouraged students to embrace their own stories as catalysts for change within their schools and communities.
“We are so grateful for Kate Yeager’s participation,” said Jesse Gluckman, event organizer. “Her story reminds our students that their voices matter—that they are powerful agents for change, no matter where they come from or what they’ve experienced.”
Students reflected on the impact of Yeager’s message, with one participant noting, “She opened my eyes to how storytelling connects people without needing to over-explain. It’s about feeling and understanding.”
The Dreaming Forward initiative supports high school students in developing leadership skills, impactful decision-making, and a sense of responsibility. These gatherings play a key role in helping students build essential skills for high school and beyond, including empathy, leadership, and community engagement. By connecting with influential figures like Yeager, students gain valuable insights that help them navigate challenges and foster stronger, more empathetic communities.
About Montgomery County Intermediate Unit
The Montgomery County Intermediate Unit (MCIU) is a dynamic educational service agency that provides visionary leadership, impactful services, and strategic solutions that maximize access and opportunities for all learners. MCIU provides a vast array of effective and efficient services that meet the educational and social service needs of Montgomery County’s 200-plus schools, including the 22 public school districts, more than 150 nonpublic schools, four career-technical schools, three charter schools and the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
