A day of reading at Rocky River
Creative Ways of Learning
Rocky River Elementary School in Mooresville, NC is one of those schools where you feel welcome the minute you enter the door. Perhaps the bright and colorful halls contribute to that perception, but mostly it’s the bright and cheerful smiles of everyone from the principal to the teachers, with the brightest smiles coming from the students.
As a children’s author, I often get invitations to speak at schools and was happy to accept an invitation from media specialist, Ms. Gina Crippen, as part of a nationwide Read Across America celebration. With music and a puppet included, as I shared my books and gave tips for writing, all the students from the youngest to the oldest seemed to enjoy our time together. Some even asked questions like where do I get my ideas and how long does it take to write a book. I couldn’t help but laugh when one student wanted to know my age. Much to his surprise I didn’t give a number, but just answered, “I’m old.”
The students were celebrating Dr. Seuss’s birthday as part of the event, which fit perfectly since my books are also written in rhythm and rhyme. When Ms. Crippen expressed appreciation to the children for wearing red, white and black in honor of Dr. Seuss, I felt happy to fit in with the color scheme wearing a red, white and black sweater.
Having a wonderful time at Rocky River didn’t end when the school bell rang because family book night was scheduled in the media center that evening. With different activities planned, parents and students had many options such as making book marks, reading, watching a presentation on the computer and visiting with a local children’s author, which just happened to be me. The participation and enthusiasm of everyone who came was exciting to see.
Thanks to media specialist, Ms. Gina Crippen and principal, Mr. Chuck LaRosso, for the invitation to read and share my books as part of the Read Across America initiative. Sponsored by the NEA and encouraged by President, Barack Obama, if you want to learn more about this nationwide event, click on the link here.
Taking every opportunity to promote learning and family involvement in a creative way, it’s no surprise Rocky River Elementary School is an Honor School of Excellence. For encouraging innovative and creative ways of teaching children, Rocky River is my favorite school of the week.
Do you know a school that is going above and beyond to educate students in a positive learning environment? If so, leave a comment, message on Facebook, or email dicysm@yahoo.com
Thanks,
Dicy
www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog
