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Iron River School rocking out for literacy

Local students and parents joined a Canadian author to rock and roll for literacy. Last week, Iron River School invited Red Deer author Sigmund Brouwer, who’s published over 100 books, to get their students interested in reading and writing.
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Red Deer author Sigmund Brouwer discussed getting kids excited about reading and writing at Iron River School on Thursday, Oct. 18.

Local students and parents joined a Canadian author to rock and roll for literacy.


Last week, Iron River School invited Red Deer author Sigmund Brouwer, who’s published over 100 books, to get their students interested in reading and writing.


While working with students, Brouwer hosted a parent literacy night on Thursday, Oct. 18 to show some of the ways to interest children in writing their own stories.


“It’s for him to show (parents) the celebration of students being able to read and write stories,” expressed prinicipal Karen Draycott. “We’re showing the parents why we brought him in, what students have been talking about when they go home, and being able to see and celebrate with their own children.”


Brouwer added, “I just hope parents understand that writing and storytelling are two separate things. We should celebrate their stories, and if we celebrate their stories that will give them enough reason to write. If they keep writing stories, their writing will get better.”


After his presentation, Brouwer gave each student a signed copy of one of his books.


Parent Jimmi Lou Irvine attended the event because her children were excited about it. “Anything that gets kids fired up about reading, writing, and telling stories is enjoyable to see as a parent. It’s a good opportunity to be reminded about how important stories are in our lives, and the lives of our kids,” she detailed.


The reaction from students was positive throughout the week, with all grades looking forward to Brouwer’s visit to their classroom.


“The kindergartens absolutely loved his picture books, and the older ones have been enthralled with his stories,” Draycott noted.


Eleven-year-old Ashlyn Tkachuk said she learned a lot from the experience.


“I learned not to care about the spelling, it’s okay to make mistakes, and don’t forget to grab (the reader’s) emotions,” emphasized Tkachuk.


Brouwer said, “Iron River is fantastic, all the teachers and their administrators care about the kids and you can see that.”


Brouwer sees his week-long workshop as adding to what teachers are already doing, while giving students the chance to publish their own books.


“What I’m hearing from parents here is they’re seeing their kids doing extra writing, because they’re excited about story,” he said.


In May, Brouwer will come back for a book publishing party, where stories students have written with him will be published in one book.


“Each kid is going to come up with their favourite story, and we’re going to put it together in a book.”

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