Noted children’s author to be part of Third Annual Read-A-Thon

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Hamline Elementary brings in famed Minnesota author and illustrator of children’s books, Nancy Carlson

By RHONDA SIMONSON

read-a-thonA lot is happening at Hamline Elementary (1599 Englewood Ave.) in March. The Hamline PTA is sponsoring their Third Annual Read-A-Thon and has activities planned around the event.

When Hamline lost its mag­net status and was given a charge to fill with neighbors; the school was fortunate to have an active group of parents and teachers to form an organization that has now transitioned to the status of a PTA, with all the rights and responsibilities of the state and national Parent Teacher Association.

The PTA has set as a goal to sponsor activities that support all students in the school. Last year an Artist in Residence was hired with monies raised in the Read-A-Thon. This year the school hopes to sponsor a music residency for all students with the raised funds.

For the 2016 school year, Hamline Elementary has hired full time a recent art educator graduate from North Dakota State, Katie Laubenstein. She works with all Hamline students. “Arts in elementary school is really important as it gives kids an outlet to express themselves and serves as a great community builder,” Laubenstein said.

Nancy Carlson, the celebrated guest artist that arrived Mar. 4, added, “Art serves as a way for kids to express their feelings when they feel powerless. Also, art needs practice…so start early.” On Nancy Carlson’s website, she states that she knew when she was in kindergarten that she wanted to be an author and illustrator.

As a special kick-off for the Read-A-Thon, the PTA was the winner of a grant paid for by the Lillian Wright & C Emil Berglund Foundation. This prize spon­sored Carlson to come and talk about her books. In her school talks, she explained how she gets ideas and then sketched for the kids and left those sketches, as well as autographed books.

In addition, books have been purchased for the younger students with a continuing grant from Rozanne Ridgway. This legacy grant is given to honor Ridgway’s mom and her love of reading.

Sheila Martin, a new second-grade teacher at Hamline, commented, “I am familiar with children reading books to raise money…but the thought of a gift of a book from someone who believes in us is very powerful and generous. The Ridgway philanthropic presence in the Hamline community is a wonderful legacy.”

Carol Schjei, a longtime kindergarten teacher, is spending lots of time reading Carlson’s books and making certain her students know that taking home an autographed book is very special.

“The best thing for kids is to work together,” Carlson said. “Teaching cooperation can help in all areas of life, especially when a child needs support! Schools should have lots of time for play. I always have hope in children. I think kids now are color blind and are being taught to accept kids different than themselves.”

Kristen Reilly, a newly appointed administrative intern at Hamline, was brought in for her expertise in school climate. All year she has been glowing at the hidden gem she found when she joined the Hamline staff. When asked about Carlson’s visit Reilly said, “ I have always admired the topics she writes about. She makes feelings accessible to young students. It is neat to see her work with children with special needs.”

Hamline students are part of a school community surrounded by teachers, family, neighbors, and strangers, cheering them on in their love of reading.

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