Our story begins in the mid
80’s when an educator realized that students were predominantly recognized and
rewarded for athletic accomplishments. At Richard Bennett Elementary in
Bellevue, WA, students received academic accolades through math and science
fairs.
In an effort to place renewed
emphasis and recognition upon creativity, self-expression and literary, the
faculty embraced the idea of having every student write his/her own story thus
the Young Author program was launched. Following extensive research, blank
books from the Tree Top Blank Book Company were found. These hard cover books
are bound with 14 blank pages and are available at a reasonable price.
A tradition of inviting published
authors and illustrators began that first year. The authors and/or illustrators
shared their personal experiences as well as writing and/or illustrating
techniques they employ throughout the writing process. Toward the end of the
first year, all Bennett students chose one or two pieces of writing to publish
in their blank books.
Following the completion of the books, the entire
school engages in a week of literacy celebration. Students are given
opportunities to read to classmates. They also participate in multi-grade level
reading exchanges. Several rough drafts were sent to a local Bellevue school
drama class. The drama students selected several of the stories to act out at a
school assembly much to the delight of the authors and the entire student body.
Each year thereafter similar Young Author celebrations have occurred.
Through Young Authors, Bennett students have shown intense interest in
reading as a catalyst for meaningful writing. Additionally, inviting authors
and illustrators to present to our school has served to inspire and expose the
writer in all of us. At Bennett Elementary we declare every student a writer !
