With their teacher, Christina Reed, leading the way, the class worked as a team to create a book. Reed was inspired to start the project after the students visited a hands-on museum. “In art class, they were writing me letters, and I was really impressed by their writing,” Reed shared. “So, after their trip, I introduced the idea of writing a book.”
The students brainstormed ideas and decided on a storyline inspired by one of their favorite movies, “Home Alone.” “They wanted to write about one of our students getting lost on a trip,” Reed explained. “I told them, ‘That didn’t happen, but we can use that idea!’ We ended up creating a story about a class trip to an art exhibit where one student became mesmerized and wandered off. The rest of the class had to use Moral Focus virtues, like wisdom, to find her.”
Every student contributed to the book titled, “Mrs. Reed’s Class Takes a Detour.” “Some students focused on writing, while others said, ‘I don’t want to write; I want to draw,’ and wow, could they draw!” Reed exclaimed.
Once the story and illustrations were complete, Reed sent the materials to a student publishing company. The company printed softcover editions for the students and hardcover copies for keepsakes. Parents and administrators also ordered copies to celebrate the students’ achievement.
To mark the occasion, Reed hosted an “author’s release” event. “I turned the classroom into a mini-Hollywood Walk of Fame,” she said. “I put stars with their names on the floor, rolled out the red carpet, and played Hollywood music. The kids dressed to impress and walked the carpet to receive their awards.”
During the event, the students took turns reading passages from their book to an audience. They also surprised the administration team by reciting a student creed they had practiced for weeks. “I wanted to cry the whole time,” Reed admitted. “I was so proud of them. They paused, fixed their words, and read wonderfully.”
Reed hopes the students will remember the perseverance it took to complete the project. “I want them to know that if they put their minds to something, they can do anything. They’re already talking about what we’re going to write at the end of the school year.”
This project wasn’t just about creating a book — it also boosted the students’ confidence. “They felt so special,” Reed shared. “They kept saying, ‘We’re authors!’ And they truly are.”
Great job, Mrs. Reed, for teaching your students not just how to write a book but also the importance of teamwork!
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About Reach Charter Academy
Reach Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Roseville, Michigan, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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