Welcome to StoryPlans.ai

StoryPlans.ai, a brand of LIRA Learning, is transforming the way educators, librarians, and parents engage young learners through interactive read-aloud. Built on the PLANS framework—an innovative instructional model that fosters critical thinking, social-emotional intelligence, and literacy skills—our platform provides high-quality, research-based lesson plans that inspire deeper learning.

Our Story and Mission

StoryPlans.ai was created by Janice Mattheis, an experienced teacher, educational leader and instructional technologist with over 15 years in education, including eight years as a Director of Instructional Technology. She has modernized school libraries, developed Future Ready plans, and helped school districts navigate virtual learning during the pandemic. Her passion for edtech led her to develop StoryPlans.ai, a platform designed to make thoughtful, research-backed instruction more accessible and engaging—empowering learners with the critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills they need for the future.

The PLANS Framework and Our Research

At the heart of StoryPlans.ai is the PLANS framework (Prompt, Learn, Ask, Navigate, Share)—a structured approach to engaging with media in meaningful ways. While the PLANS framework is designed to support critical thinking and inquiry across all types of media, StoryPlans.ai applies it specifically to interactive read-aloud. By following this structured approach, educators can help students engage deeply with texts, make meaningful connections, and develop essential future-ready skills such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. Our methodology is grounded in educational research and best practices, ensuring that every lesson plan supports effective instruction.

For a deeper dive into our research foundations, our instructional approach is highlighted in a co-authored article by Janice Mattheis and Dr. Margaret Policastro, Chair of the Education Department and founder of the Summer Literacy Program at Roosevelt University. The article, published in the Winter 2024 edition of the Illinois Reading Council Journal, explores the impact of interactive read-aloud. Additionally, you can review our research paper which further details our approach.

Seeking Research Partners

To further validate the impact of the PLANS framework and StoryPlans.ai’s approach to read-aloud, we are actively seeking research organizations, school districts, and doctoral students interested in conducting a study to measure its effectiveness. If you are interested in collaborating on research that explores how structured, inquiry-based read-alouds enhance literacy development and critical thinking, we would love to connect. Complete this research inquiry form or contact us today at [email protected].

Seeking Investors to Expand Our Impact

StoryPlans.ai is poised to revolutionize literacy education, and we are seeking investors and strategic partners to help scale our platform. Our goal is to bring AI-powered, research-based literacy solutions to more classrooms, libraries, and homes. If you’re interested in supporting the future of education, view our pitch deck and connect with us to learn more.

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Literacy

Thank you for visiting StoryPlans.ai. We invite you to explore our resources, discover the power of interactive read-aloud, and join us in our mission to nurture literacy, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of reading.