The Shakespeare Festival's Education Department works in partnership with community-based arts, cultural and service organizations using theatre and the works of Shakespeare to build community and enhance civic engagement.

Prison Performing Arts Partnership, is a year-long, collaborative program at the Hogan Street Regional Youth Center working with residents ages 14-16. Festival and PPATeaching Artists provide in-class and afterschool workshops in Shakespeare and literature to promote self-esteem and creativity.

America SCORES St. Louis, a youth development program, works with students (ages 8 to 11) to develop leadership skills, good fitness habits and a love of learning. This semester-long partnership in eight St. Louis public schools uses theatre to help students build confidence through the performance of their own poetry.