John Shu held a meet-and-greet with students in their classrooms. Shu is pictured, below, with Central Elementary 4th grader Alma Castro Gamez. He is signing a copy of his book, This Is a Story, illustrated by Caldecott Honor artist Lauren Castillo.
On Tuesday, Central Elementary students, faculty and staff welcomed John Schu, author and children’s book advocate, for an all-day experience filled with reading, storytelling, and inspiration.
Schu began the day with a schoolwide assembly, where he shared his love of books and the power of stories to connect people. Students heard about his journey as both a reader and a writer, and he encouraged the students to see books not just as assignments, but as friends that can stay with them for a lifetime. He also brought his "Schu" box of book giveaways and shared his favorite stories.
Following the assembly, Schu visited classrooms to spend time with students in smaller groups. He answered questions, read excerpts, and listened as children shared their own thoughts about books and writing.
“Having Mr. Schu at Central was such a gift for our students,” said Central Elementary School Principal Katie Dantrassy. “His passion for books is contagious, and our students will leave feeling inspired to read and write more.”
Schu will also visit McNinch Primary School and Center McMechen Elementary School to share his passion of writing and reading.
West Virginia author Anna Smucker and author Michael Shoulders will make a stop at Central Elementary, in late November, as a part of the school’s Autumn’s Awesome Authors series. This program is another way Central Elementary School continues to connect students with opportunities that build a love of learning and literacy.