Dolly Parton on the red carpet at a Grammy Awards ceremony. The country music icon, songwriter and philanthropist is being remembered for a seven-decade career and a legacy of generosity. Photo: PBS News Hour
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August 26, 2026
Dolly Parton left a mark far beyond country music, from songwriting and film to literacy programs that mailed millions of books to children. Students explore her extraordinary life and why she resonated with so many.
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The world is mourning the passing of the queen of country, Dolly Parton. Her enormous legacy spans not only music, but the world of movies and entertainment, health care, philanthropy and education. Amna Nawaz takes a look at Parton's extraordinary life.
View the transcript of the story.
Short on time? Watch the video and complete the following See, Think, Wonder questions: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to learn more about?
Dolly Parton's nephew Bryan Seaver said of his aunt Dolly Parton: "Dolly opened doors, not just for me, but for her entire family to reach the potential we didn't even know was possible. Dolly also opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians, and dreamers from every walk of life and across every continent."
Why do you think Dolly Parton was so successful and beloved?
Media literacy: How do you think the inclusion of Parton's music throughout the news segment affect the viewer? How do you think pictures like the ones below from her early days as a performer to her movie career to murals created by her fans affect the viewer?
Interview a family member, neighbor or a staff member at your school about what they most remember about Dolly Parton. Ask how Parton may have changed or affected them in some way; what songs do they remember; why they think she resonated so much with people and other aspects of Parton's life, including ways she helped build community and helped others. Share your responses with your class the next day.
Bring music to life in your classroom with these free preK-12 lesson plans and professional development webinars from Share My Lesson partners and community users like you.
Republished with permission from PBS News Hour Classroom.
