How do you get students excited about reading? Invite a dynamic author to come and speak to your school! On March 8 and 9, Heavilin and Flint Lake Elementaries had the honor of hosting author Troy Cummings, author and illustrator of The Notebook of Doom series as well as many others. This opportunity was funded in part by grants from the Valparaiso School Foundation. Prior to his visit, Mr. Cummings had spent several Skype sessions with both Heavilin and Flint Lake students so the students were eager and excited to meet him! While at the schools, Mr. Cummings spent the two days doing assemblies and break-out sessions with grade levels.
Students had the opportunity to learn what it takes to be a great writer, how to create illustrations, and heard about perseverance. Mr. Cummings was fun, engaging, and honest about the challenges a writer and illustrator faces. Students at Flint Lake took home a book from his series, The Notebook of Doom, compliments of their PTO. Mr. Cummings also helped to kick off the PTO Read-a-thon at Heavilin by reading his awesome new book, Can I Be Your Dog?
It was such a thrilling experience! Students are reading and illustrating stories with zeal!