A good story

We had the privilege today of hearing Medal of Honor recipient Francis Currey speak about his experiences in the Battle of the Bulge in 1944-45.  He is pictured here with author Michael Collins who talked with Parker middle schoolers about finding different types of sources for research.  As a primary source for modern history, Mr. Currey was fascinating and a true hero, having defended a key bridge from German tanks with a group of seven infantrymen in Belgium.  Mr. Currey went back to Belgium in the '70's and encountered a German man who had been a soldier there at the time, forming a life-long friendship.  A moving story!

Students learned much about the writer, illustrator, and storyteller's craft from other guests Patrice Kindle, Sylvie Kantorovitz, Matt McElligott, Kent Busman, and our puppeteer favorite The Ivy Vine Players with Grian MacGregor.  There was a presentation from Market Block Books and everyone enjoyed the Used Book Sale.  A parade with a crazy cast of storybook characters rounded out a wonderful day.

See our Facebook page for more photos.

Dr. Suess we love you

A Snow Day could not dampen the enthusiasm of Parker kids for dressing as their favorite characters!  We enjoyed story-teller Kent Busman, writer/illustrator Sylvie Kantorovitz, and inventive puppeteer Grein.  Our librarian, Carol Kanalley is working hard to re-schedule the other writers.  Kids stayed in costume all day - in Earth Science class, I loved watching Cinderella give a talk about bacillus, taking a question from the Lorax.  Read Across America Day is a favorite for the whole school!