Writers Week brings out the best in Fremd! Students and faculty alike are a bit more courteous to each other, a bit more empathetic, a bit more connected. This, interestingly, is exactly what reading and writing does to us! Matt de la Pena reminded us that when he spoke about how he went from a reluctant reader all through school to a fervent reader and writer that he is today. “Reading makes us more empathetic.” It’s words like this that will stick with me all year long. I may not remember entire presentations or the lyrics to FANBOYS songs but I will remember moments . . . moments that can turn into inspired dreams and accomplished goals.
Jennifer Niven revealed that her mother taught her to “see the story in everything.” We all have a story, and we all get to decide what the focus of that story will be: who will star in it, who will be the supporting characters and, while we may not know the ending as we go along, we get to decide how we will act within that ending.
Laura Ruby tells us that “The key to a good story is not the idea but how you execute that idea.” To that end, she speaks of the importance of revision throughout the writing process, As an English teacher, I’m happy to hear that coming from someone other than me for my students; but, as a writer, I’m consoled by the fact that writing does not – should not – be perfect the first time.
Seeing colleague Amy Pine speak about her published novels inspires beyond words – she reminds us to just sit down and start. She’s living proof that hard work does indeed make dreams come true.
IL Teacher of the Year, Steve Elza, seems to make kids feel safe enough to take risks in the classroom. He reminds students that they “have more than they show,” that they can achieve more than they may think. He reminds students that he didn’t have a straight-A, storybook background himself, and students relate well to his approachable guidance.
All of our presenters – near and far – made Writers Week a priceless experience for students and teachers alike; yet, it’s the students that truly steal the show. Each and every student standing on that stage, reading his or her story, bore souls. It takes much courage to read – however much prepared – a personal writing. Each and every student succeeding in making that connection, and each one left us with something to think about. Our very own Jillian Finnis illustrates this well when she stated, “Love yourself for who you are. You’re the prize and you have to tell yourself that.”
While I was not lucky enough to see the first Writers Week, and have only seen Writers Week live for the past two years, I know that it’s been just as inspirational from its beginning to where we are today. I already cannot wait for next year’s program yet I am excited beyond words for all the inspiration spawned. Let’s begin, shall we?! Let’s Write!!