Lower School Students Are Inspired by Angela Dominguez's Visit

Angela Dominguez's author/illustrator visit to Lower School on Thursday, October 24th made quite an impression on our students and teachers. Students were attentive as Angela shared that she has been writing and sketching in journals as early as she can remember. She shared that a tiny sketch or a short bit of writing can become the catalyst for the beginning of a new book.

Our lower school students had heard books read aloud in Spanish and English by Alicia, and first and second grade students have listened and responded to Lola Levine is Not Mean read aloud by Ann in the beginning of reading workshop. Third grade students have shared their thinking during discussion and in writing about Stella Diaz Has Something to Say. This strong grounding in Angela Dominguez's books enabled our students to ask very specific and pertinent questions during her visit. She was very impressed by their preparation and thoughtfulness. Since her visit, students in all classes have been talking about writing tips she shared. Her biggest tip was to encourage all students to read widely. Angela shared her favorite books at various ages and how they influenced her.

After her presentation, first graders were so inspired that they rushed out to recess with their writing journals and wrote and sketched in various locations throughout our playground. One of our first graders wrote a letter to Angela. When she received the photo of the letter she shared how special this was and how much she enjoyed presenting at our school and meeting and talking with our students.