HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-639-E Arts - The Expedition School Arts Grant DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F c a
Of ORANGE COUNTY ARTS COMMISSION
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FALL 2015 GRANT AGREEMENT
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THIS AGREEMENT, entered into this 22nd day of December, 2015, by and between Orange
County ("County"), by and through the Orange County Arts Commission ("Arts Commission")
and The Expedition School ("Grant Recipient").
WHEREAS, the Arts Commission is a countywide arts agency that ensures the growth of
local arts experiences by providing funding and support for diverse high quality programs and
projects.
WHEREAS, the Arts Commission administers the Spring and Fall Arts Grants Program
to provide economic opportunities to Orange County artists and non-profit organizations
coordinating arts projects benefiting the citizens of Orange County.
WHEREAS, the Spring Arts Grants Program is supported by Arts Commission with
funds from the Grassroots Program of the North Carolina Arts Council, an agency of the
Department of Cultural Resources and the National Endowment for the Arts.
WHEREAS, the Grant Recipient was selected by the Arts Commission to receive the
Spring Arts Grant through the procedures duly adopted by the Arts Commission; and
WHEREAS, both parties wish to promote and maintain the integrity and clarity of the
Grant Recipient's ideas and statements and delineate the Grant Recipient's obligations to the
County;
NOW, THEREFORE, the County and the Grant Recipient, for the consideration and
under the conditions hereinafter set forth, agree as follows:
1. Approved Grant Project. Grant funds are provided under this Agreement for the project
("Project") described in the Grant Recipient's Grant Application, attached hereto and
incorporated herein as Exhibit A.
2. Grant Award. Grant funds in an amount not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000)
have been awarded by the Arts Commission to the Grant Recipient for the approved
Project. These funds must be matched at least dollar-for-dollar with cash from the Grant
Recipient's funds not derived from either Orange County appropriations or the North
Carolina Arts Council.
3. Contingency. This grant is contingent on North Carolina Arts Council Grassroots
Program funding to the Arts Commission. Final decisions on Grassroots Program funds
to the North Carolina Arts Council are subject to approval by the North Carolina General
Assembly.
4. Responsibilities of the Grant Recipient
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A. Implementation. The Project implementation shall take place between January 1,
2016 and December 31, 2016. The Project shall be implemented in the manner
described in Exhibit A. Time is of the essence in the implementation of the
Project.
B. Modifications to project. Grant Recipient shall present major changes to the
original proposal, including but not limited to changes in design, implementation
schedule and increase in Project budget by more than 10%, in writing to the Arts
Commission for approval. Arts Commission shall approve or disapprove Grant
Recipient's request for modifications within seven (7) days of receipt thereof.
Consent to project modifications shall not be unreasonably withheld. Arts
Commission's decisions shall be in writing. In the event the Arts Commission
fails to approve or disapprove the requested modifications within the time stated
herein, the modifications shall be deemed approved.
C. Non—assignment. The grant cannot be assigned or transferred to a different project
or artist without prior written approval of the Arts Commission.
D. Records. Grant Recipient must maintain records and other evidence pertaining
to costs incurred and revenues acquired during the Project implementation. Grant
Recipient shall maintain financial records pertaining to the Project for three (3)
years from the date of this Agreement, in ease of audit.
E. Use of Funds. Grant Recipient shall not use the grant funds to repay outstanding
taxes or other debts of any nature. The grants shall be utilized solely for the
purpose of implementing the Project and Project related expenses.
F. Final Report. Grant Recipient shall submit to the Arts Commission a Final Report
on January 13, 2017 . The Final Report shall be in the format required by
the North Carolina Arts Council. Failure to submit the Final Report or late
submission of the Final Report, for any reason, shall be grounds for denial and/or
cancellation of grant funds for the Project and future grant proposals.
5. Responsibilities of the Arts Commission
A. Payment. The Arts Commission shall release the grant funds in the amount of
$1,000 to the Grant Recipient.
6. Publicity
A. Acknowledgement. Credit must be given to the Orange County Arts
Commission using the Arts Commission logo and if State funds are received
to the North Carolina Grassroots Program in brochures, news releases,
programs, and all other printed and online publications. Copies of such printed
materials must accompany the evaluation report. When no printed information is
used, verbal credit shall be given. In addition, all print and promotional material
must include the following credit line (check all that apply):
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i. x County Funds Only. "This program is supported by the Orange County
Arts Commission."
ii. North Carolina Arts Council Funding. "This program is supported by
the Orange County Arts Commission with funds from the Grassroots Program
of the North Carolina Arts Council, a state agency. "
B. The Grant Recipient must enter all events, exhibits and performances open to the
public and related to this grant award on the ExploreChapelHillARTS.com
website and display ExploreChapelHillARTS.com publicity materials
(postcards, brochures, etc.) prominently and consistently at their venue or
performance space. In addition, the Grant Recipient must add a link to the
ExploreChapelHillARTS.coin (ExploreChapelHillARTS.com logo preferred)
to their main webpage. The Grant Recipient shall contact the Orange County Arts
Commission for replacement ExploreChapelHiIIARTS.com publicity materials.
7. Indemnity. The Grant Recipient agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the County, the
Arts Commission and the North Carolina Arts Council and their officers and employees
from any and all claims or actual injury, damage or loss to a person, or real or personal
property that results from or is in any way connected to the use of the grant funds.
8. Independent Contractor. The Grant Recipient is an independent contractor and not an
employee, agent or other representative of the County and/or the Arts Commission.
Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed to create the relationship of
principal and agent, or employer and employee, between Grant Recipient and Arts
Commission or Orange County Government. Grant Recipient understands and agrees
that he/she is not authorized to incur any expenses or any liability whatsoever on behalf
of the County or the Arts Commission and has no authority, expressed or implied, to
obligate or make representations on behalf of the County or the Arts Commission. In
addition, Grant Recipient agrees to maintain his or her own worker's compensation
insurance for himself/herself and his or her employees for the duration of the art work's
installation.
9. Termination
A. In the event of any of the circumstances set forth below (hereinafter referred to as
"default"), the Arts Commission may immediately terminate this Agreement:
(i) Any fraudulent representation in any verification required to obtain
payment under this Agreement or other dishonesty on a material matter
relating to the performance of services under this Agreement.
(ii) Nonperformance, incomplete service or performance, or failure to
satisfactorily perform any part of the Project or to comply with any
provision of this Agreement, as determined by the Arts Commission in its
sole discretion.
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(iii) Failure to adhere to the terms of applicable county, state or federal laws,
regulations, or stated public policy.
B. In the event of default by the Grant Recipient, the Arts Commission has the
discretion to elect to terminate this Agreement, in whole or in part and/or require
the Grant Recipient to repay the grant funds within seven (7) from written notice
of default or allow the grant recipient the opportunity to cure the default. This
clause shall not be interpreted to limit the County's or the Arts Commission's
remedies in law or in equity.
10. Miscellaneous.
A. Entire Agreement. This Agreement and the attachments contain the final and
entire understanding of the parties with respect to the subject matter of this
Agreement. All modifications and amendments to this Agreement shall be in
writing. This Agreement shall be binding upon the parties, their heirs, successors
and assigns.
B. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be interpreted in accordance with the laws
of the State of North Carolina and the Orange County.
C. Entire Agreement and Signatures. The parties have read this Agreement and agree
to be bound by all of its terms, and further agree that it constitutes the complete
and exclusive statement of the Agreement between the parties unless and until
modified in writing and signed by the parties. This Agreement together with any
amendments or modifications may be executed electronically. All electronic
signatures affixed hereto evidence the intent of the Parties to comply with Article
11A and Article 40 of North Carolina General Statute Chapter 66.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Orange County and the Grant Recipient have signed this Grant
Agreement, effective on the last date this Agreement is signed by both parties as indicated by the
dates set forth under signatures below.
For and on behalf of the Grant Recipient
fe—oocusigned by: 12/22/2015
TR w.V.y Frnc. -
`—.4545F084957F499... Expedition School Date
For and on behalf of Orange County Government
Docu5igned by:
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56 t, tkowAuostui 12/30/2015
0113799413755E477... Inty Manager Date
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DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Zl r Art g-46413.clichAWA G . tjil Fo
Orange County Arts Commission
ORANGE COUNTY ARTS
COMMISSION
Promoting the artistic and cultural development of Orange County, North Carolina
Evaluation Criteria
- Artistic merit of program.
- Populations served—impact for geographic&traditionally under-served populations.
- Feasibility of proposed activity&effectiveness in providing high-impact arts experiences in schools.
- Cooperation between schools and artists.
• Evidence of feasibility of program, community support, and responsiveness to community needs,
• Integration of arts program into grade-level appropriate curriculum.
1 Applicant Information
Applicant Name The Expedition School
Mailing Address 437 Dimmocks Mill Rd Suite#33, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Daytime Phone 919-245-8432 Fax Number 919-245-8460
Email Address explorer atheexpeditionschool.com Web Site http:llwww.theexpeditionschool.com
Project Director Angie Archbold
DUNS Number 020075165
2 Project Director Information
Project Director Home Address: 437 Dimmocks Mill Rd Suite#33, Hillsborough, NC 27278
Daytime Phone Evening Phone 919-245-8432 ext 118
Email Address angiearchbold(dAheexpeditionschool.conri
3 Grant Request Summary
Arts Program Grant Request $1000.00
Total Cash Match $1000.00
Total Organizational Budget 2013-14 NA
2014-2015 $0
2015-2016 $8000
Summary Statement for Proposed Uses of Arts in Education Grant The Expedition School(TES) is a
public charter school in Hillshnrniig,h,NC., offering hands-on learning in all subjects to for grades
K-7 and will expand to grade Sin 2016-17. TES would like to invite 1\15.Susie Wilde to lead a
writing residency for the 3th and 4th grade classes in spring of 2016. The residency will culminate
in a Book Reading during which students will invite their families to come to the classroom to
view and hear a reading of their work produced during the residency.
Questions? Call us at(919) 968-2011 • Deliver Application to: 501 West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, NC
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Application Narrative
The Expedition School
2015-2016 Arts in Education Grant
School Profile
Overview
The Expedition School (TES) is a public charter school in I-Iillsborough, NC,that opened its
doors to its First students in August 2014. Our school offers hands-on learning in all subjects for
grades I(-7,and will be expanding to grade 8 in August 2016, The school's mission is to embrace
the natural curiosity of children and empower them to become innovative problem solvers and
community builders. TES provides a dynamic learning experience through an experiential,
project-based,and a science,technology, engineering, and math (STEM)-focused curriculum.
More about Project-Based Learning:
Children [earn best when curriculum comes to life. Hands-on, integrated, project-based learning
allows children to connect to big ideas and to attach real world meaning to what they are
learning. Instead of skimming the surface of a concept,children participating in project-based
learning delve deeply into topics of study and are encouraged to ask questions, find answers,and
take ownership of their [earning. Students work individually and collaboratively on projects that
build character and can make a difference, allowing them to develop respect and compassion for
individuals,our local community, and our global community.
School needs
There are 390 students enrolled at TES. We have a diverse community of students who reside in
Chapel Hill-Carrboro, Orange, Chatham, Durham, Alamance, Caswell, and Wake counties. The
student body includes children of Asian, African-American,Hispanic, and Caucasian
backgrounds. The Expedition School is in its second year of operation and currently has a very
limited budget for dedicated arts programs. There is a true need for hands-on programs that can
be integrated with the curriculum, in accordance with the school's commitment to project-based
learning. We are fortunate to have a wonderful community of local artists and authors,who are
willing to share their talents in the classroom and in doing so, inspire the next generation.
School Arts Programs
All TES students attend music class two to three times a week,with Laura Perry,who also leads
the middle school band. This past August, in accordance with our charter plans,TES was pleased
to introduce formal art classes taught by Emily Thewlis, an innovative and highly talented artist
and instructor. Students meet for art class two to three times a week and have created wonderful
works of art using a plethora of media, ranging from pencil drawings to an elaborate all-school
collage.Plans are underway to share our student masterpieces with our local community via
public displays at venues including a coffee shop and the library. Written and visual expression
continue to be an integral part of project-based learning across all disciplines with writing and
visual arts seamlessly incorporated in our project-based learning curriculum. Additionally,all
TES students have the option of attending multiple arts-related Enrichment Clubs,which include
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Fiber Arts,Awesome Art,Mush Gush Woosh (which combines"messy"art with science),Art
Investigations (which incorporates the study of art history), and Inkslingers, a creative writing
club.
Proposed Use of Funds
TES would like to invite Susie Wilde to lead a writing residency for our 3rd and 4th grade
students in spring of 2016. Ms. Wilde has thirty years of experience leading writing residencies
in elementary school classrooms, sharing literary experiences on college campuses, and
presenting in libraries, bookstores and community centers. We propose a$1,000 matching grant
from the Orange County Arts Council to pay Ms. Wilde's $2,000 writer-in-residency fee.
Last spring,with great thanks to a grant from the Orange County Arts Commission, our
multi-age 5th/6th grade(a total of 43 students) had the pleasure of working with Ms. Wilde on a
very successful interactive and collaborative project to develop their persuasive writing skills.
Students were guided through a process of book selection,examination, and critique,
review-writing, and group editing. Attached to this application are the first and third drafts of
their work, to illustrate the tremendous growth that the students achieved with Ms. Wilde,
This spring, we would like Ms. Wilde to share her book-writing residency program with our 80
3rd/4th grade students. Ms, Wilde has enjoyed great success with this program, as is described in
detail in the attached article about her residency at South Warren Elementary School. Ms. Wilde
has designed her program to engage students throughout the challenge of collaboratively writing
a book,making use of classroom"games"to maintain student participation. Her process
includes:
• reading stories,to the students,which model literary elements from character
development to the importance of word choice in establishing tone and involving the
senses
• leading the students through the process of creating individual characters and voting to
select a main character
• collaboratively devising a narrative skeleton with a focus on character, motivation,
conflict, climax and resolution
• delving into style concepts including the use of vivid verbs, dialogue, imagery and
descriptions that invoke the senses
• editing and re-editing a story draft,with each of our 4 classrooms having ownership of a
scene or portion of the book
• illustrating the story
• celebrating the completed book with students' families and friends at an evening book
reading/publication patty to be held at TES
The proposed residency will take place over the course of 10 visits by Ms. Wilde to TES and
would enhance the students' English and Art class work. Our English teachers, Mr. Ellis and Ms.
Archbold will help facilitate the program, by working with Ms. Wilde in the classroom and
offering their input and feedback.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
2015-16 Arts in Education Application Page Three
t 11
ti ',
ORANGE COUNTY ARTS
COMMISSION
Financial Information
Please provide a projected budget for your proposed project utilizing the format below.
Project Expenses Cash = Grant Amount + Applicant
Expenses Requested Cash Match
A Personnel
Administrative staff
Artistic staff
Technical/Production staff
B Outside Fees and Services
Artistic contracts $2000 $1000 $1000
Other contracts:
C Space Rental
D Travel
E Marketing
F Remaining Project Expenses
G Total Cash Expenses $2000 = $1000 + $ 1000
Project Income Cash Income
A Admissions
B Contracted Services Revenue
C Other Revenue(specify) $1000
Families of the 51h161h grade students will each contribute$15
D Private Support
Corporate support
Foundation support
Other private support
E Government Support
Federal
State/regional (not including this request)
Local(not including this request)
F Applicant Cash
G Grant Amount Requested $1000
in this application
H Total Cash Income $2000
(must equal Total Cash Expenses,
Item G above)
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
er/ 2015-16 Arts in Education Application — Page Four
ORANGE COUNTY ARTS
COMMISSION
Signatures
qvafill
Signature of Project Director Date
PrniCt \e 4E(A1 (51/t
Typed or Printed Name- Project Director
(2--71/7 rz/ic, _ -9/4/SA , 11
Signature of Authorizing Official Date
Patricia Brummitt .1 Ii r,cf r t. 1 ,:; L
Typed or Printed Name-Authorizing Official
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE FUNDED
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Resume of Key Artist
Susan Wilde
Teacher,Writer, Reviewer,Presenter,Consultant, Children's Book Specialist
7400 Talbryn Way, Chapel Hill,NC 27516
email: ignitingwriting @gmail.com
http:llignitingwriting,coml
919-932-3300
Lectures, Training Sessions and Presentations
2013 Guest lecturer at Antioch University, Santa Barbara, CA
2013 Presentation for children's book writers at the Decatur Book Festival in Decatur,GA
2012-3 Rural, low wealth residencies in Warrenton, Wilkes and Yancey Counties, funded by
North Carolina Arts Council
2012 "Pictures and Words: Writing and Illustrating for children,"a two-week workshop for
teachers and artists at Penland School of Crafts,Penland,NC; self-publication of Passage: &Its
Making, a class resource about creating picture books.
2012 Series of five teacher trainings at Bogue Sound Elementary School centered on boys'
reading and higher order thinking, sponsored by UNC Chapel Hill's First Schools
2011 "What Can a Small Bird Be?",a book collaboration with Peg Gignoux and teen
writers/illustrators from across NC, sponsored by NC Department of Public Instruction and the
NC Museum of Art
2011 "A Spikey Story"A Story Quilt Collaboration with Peg Gignoux and Burnsville
Elementary School in Burnsville,NC
2010 "Woody's Miracle"A Story Quilt Collaboration with Peg Gignoux and Underwood
Elementary School staff and students in Raleigh,NC
2009 "A Cat's Tale"A Story Quilt Collaboration with Peg Gignoux and patrons of Kill Devil
Hills Library,Kill Devil Hills,NC
2009 Luncheon Speaker at Eastern Carolina University, "Books Your Students Will Devour"
2009 Children's Literature Training Seminar for Preschool Teachers for DOPA(Durham
Orange Preschool Association)
2008-2009 "Searchin' Urchin",Carrboro Elementary School, Chapel Hill,NC. A tri-lingual
Story Quilt in English, Spanish, and Burmese to represent this diverse school.
2007 Collaboration with Washington Gallery,Welsh artist,Heloise Godfrey and Llandough,
Primary School's Language and Speech Unit, South Wales, Great Britain
2007 "Pangeo's Story Project",Mary Scroggs Elementary School, Chapel Hill,NC. An
arts-based collaboration of music, song,story, art, and creative movement
2006 Collaboration with Washington Gallery,Welsh artist, Heloise Godfrey and 5th-6th grade
students at Radnor Road Primary in Cardiff,Wales, Great Britain
2006 Collaborative writing with eighteen after school students at Haw River Elementary
School--Wrote a story for a Story Quilt illustrated by Elon University Students
2006 "Tell Me a Patch Story Quilt"with textile artist Peg Gignoux and families at Hemphill
Public Library in Greensboro,NC
2005 Designed and co-led"Heroes"reading-writing program for at-risk 5th graders at Estes
Elementary School, Chapel Hill,NC
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2005 Visiting Artist at Elon University for Winter Term course funded by James H. McEwan
Visual Arts Fund.
2005 "We Need Books Too!"--Story Quilt with textile artist Peg Gignoux,McGirt-Horton
Public Library in Greensboro,NC
2005 Leader Teacher and Project Developer for ArtsTeach's 2005 Professional Development
Charlotte,NC
2004 "Art is for Dragons"--Whole School Story Quilt with textile artist Peg Gignoux, Douglas
Elementary School,Raleigh,NC
2004 Keynote address at Eastern Carolina University"No Teacher Left Untested: Bringing
Meaning to Literacy Instruction"
2004-present CELT Workshop Leader for Meredith College in Raleigh,NC
2003-2005 Development of On-the-Job Whole School Teacher Workshops designed to meet
NC Reading Methods CEUs
2003 `Blink!"--Bilingual Story quilt developed with textile artist Peg Gignoux and 18 sixth
graders, Kestrel Heights Charter School,Durham,NC
2002 Visiting artist coaching adults in writing,Penland Crafts School,NC
2002-2008 Guest lecturer, Duke University,Durham,NC
2000-present Leader of Professional Development Seminars
1990-present Presenter for parents, families &teachers on the uses of children's books &
writing.
1990-2001 Visiting artist/performer offering writing residencies and educational presentation
about writing to children K-6
1998 National Presenter at YMCA Childcare Conference, Chicago, IL
1988-1989 Coordinator, Santa Barbara County Year of the Young Reader
1987-1990 Bookseller 1 Owner of Once Upon a Lap (Children's book sales, consulting and
lectures)
1987-present Children's book and audio reviewer(see publishing credits)
Publishing Credits (Articles)
Spring, 2008 "Tell Me a Patch: An Artistic Story Quilt Collaboration"an article published in
Children&Libraries •
Winter,2007 "Rediscovering Wonder in Wales" an article published in Teaching Artist Journal
2006-present Reviewer for Audio File Magazine
2007-present Audio Columnist, Chapel Hill Herald,Chapel Hill,NC
2004-present Writer/Reviewer for NoveList, on-line review data base
1999-present Monthly column on children's books,Raleigh News &Observer
1997-2006 Monthly column on children's books/audio books,Herald Sun,Durham,
1993-2003 Commentator, WUNC radio,reviewing children's books for this NPR affiliate
1993-2001 Children's book reviewer,Triangle's The Independent
1997-2001 Monthly column on children's books,The Chapel Hill News
1995-2001 Monthly commentary columnist for The Chapel Hill News
1995-1998 Children's book review columnist, Learning Magazine,a national bimonthly
magazine for teachers
1994-1997 Contributor, Children's Book Review, a quarterly magazine devoted to children's
books
1994-2000 Contributor to Children's Literature Newsletter
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
1991-1995 Monthly children's book reviewer and interviewer,BookPage
1988-1997 Contributing Editor for Baby Talk Magazine
1987-1993 Publication in Santa Barbara News-Press,Peninsula Parent, Chicago Parent,
Family Journal, Carolina Parent,Kids Toronto, and Twins Magazine
Publishing Credits(Books)
Summer 2012 Passage& Its Making, a co-written book on how to write a children's
book
Summer 2011 "What Can a Small Bird Be?", a book collaboration with Peg Gignoux and teen
writers/illustrators from across NC
Summer 2006 "Tell Me a Patch Story Quilt"a book collaboration with Peg Gignoux and the
patrons of Hemphill Library in Greensboro,NC
1998 Contributor to Multicultural Resources for Young Readers (New Press, 1997), a large and
comprehensive look at issues by experts from around the country, edited by Daphne Muse
1997 Write-a-Than!, an educational resource for teachers wanting to organize a two day
writing marathon(Heinemann, 1997)
1988 Extraordinary Chester, a picture book published by Red Hen Press.
Education
2007 Three day workshop with Creative Capital
2005 Three day intensive training for Teaching Artists with Eric Booth
1998 Three day training with the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts
1977 Education Credentials,California(Multiple Subject,Learning Handicapped, Reading
Specialist)
1975-1976 M.Ed, in Education,Tulane University
1974-1975 Education Credentials,Louisiana(Multiple Subject, Early Childhood,Learning
Disabled)
1974 B.A. in English,Tulane University
Honors and Awards
2007 Cardiff Accredited ArtsMark Partner Award awarded by Cardiff Creative Arts Support
Team
2005 Selected for Southern Artistry,an invitation only directory of touring artists organized by
the Southern Arts Federation
2003 Participant in Telly Finalist Documentary"Worth It? You Bet!",a short video on early
reading
1999 Finalist, 24-Hour Novel Writing Contest,Raleigh,NC
1996-present Listed in NC State Artist Touring Directory
1996-present Recipient of nine Grant Awards from the North Carolina Arts Council
1981,1985 Winner of Santa Barbara Writer's Conference Award for Best Juvenile Writer.
1989 Benjamin Franklin Award finalist, Extraordinary Chester
Professional Memberships
1996-present Member Child-lit, listsery devoted to children's books
1995-present International Reading Association
1992-present North Carolina's Writers Network
1987-2010 Association of Booksellers for Children
1982-present Society of Children's Book Writers &Illustrators (SCBWI)
1993-1995 Board Member SCBWI: Carolinas
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Artist Contact List
Writer: Susan Wilde
Teacher, Writer,Reviewer, Presenter, Consultant,Children's Book Specialist
Contact Information
Email: ignitingwriting@gmail.com
Phone number: 919-932-3300
Mailing address: 7400 Talbryn Way, Chapel Hill,NC 27516
Website: http://ignitingwriting.conil
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Staff Roster of School Art and Music Teachers
Laura Perry,Music/Band teacher: lauraperry@theexpeditionschool.com
Emily Thewlis,Art Teacher: emilythewlis(a7theexpeditionschool.cam
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Board Contact List
Administrative Team
Tammy Finch
Director of Education and Professional Development
Patricia Brummitt
Director of Business and Operations
The Expedition School
2014-15 Board of Directors
Mailing Address
The Expedition School
Attn: Board
437 Dimmocks Mill Rd
Hillsborough,NC 27278
General Email
board@theexpeditionschool.com
Members
Steven Holdaway, Chairman.
steveholdaway@theexpeditionschool.com
919-949-3798
Jim Parker
jimparker@theexpeditionschool.com
Velinda Hatcher
velindahatcher@theexpeditionschool.com
919-419-0835
Andy Finkle
andyfinkle @theexpeditionschool.corn
919-475-8754
Bessie Mbadugha
bessiembadugha@theexpeditionschool.com
919-645-8079
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
2014 Orange County Arts Commision Arts in Education Grant Recipient for
Writer-in-Residence Program with Susie Wilde
Review Exploration at The Expedition School
Serendipity seemed in full force when Jena Kaizen and I met to arrange scheduling for a review writing
residency at Expedition School in Hillsborough, NC (http://www.theexpeditionschooicorn).
I had wanted to work at Expedition ever since I heard of their emphasis on project-based learning. It
seemed a perfect place to find partnership for my teaching style-writing that is driven by exploration to find
understanding rather than curriculum mandates.
If
}
I'd been craving another opportunity to work with Jena. We worked together for a brief afternoon two years
ago. It didn't take me long to see how she emphasized and promoted deep thought. I read aloud Jaqueline
Woodson's Each Kindness (Dial, ages 8 and up)and her students, obviously encouraged by Jena's
teaching style, responded with considered, candid responses that thrilled both of us.
Thanks to the dedication of talented grant-writing parents, the parents of the 5th and 6th grade Expedition
parents and the generous supportive of the Orange County Arts Commission, this dream became a reality.
And as plans proceeded the residency seemed supported in other ways—a like-minded school
environment, the matched teaching styles Jena and I used and the fact that both our schedules were clear
for the next five weeks.
But Mother Nature had another plan. The first Tuesday I showed up, so did snowfall. We were only
half-way into a lesson when school cancelled. Cancellations and spring break interceded, but finally
yesterday we finished five weeks of fun writing with delightful, engaged students.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
• One of the things I adored about our work was Jena's willingness to leap into collaboration and suggestions
based in years of teaching experience and knowing her students' styles. We began by compiling review
criteria and Jena composed a marvelous charting of all we uncovered.
6th Grade
Criteria for Book Review
About the Book About the Writing Style f- .__—_--
Reviewer (&
his/her thinking)
• summary (tell ---------�---•.^- opinio • powerful words-1
enough, but not n of • pose questions (to make
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• title (favorit • be descriptive
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• characters • reason • grab attention
• setting ing for • '1st person perspective
• description liking it • picture of reviewer
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
• short (2 I (or
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• picture of the • opinio
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• genre(s) the
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We read several books to the 5th and 6th grade classes.
They chose a favorite to review.
We decided which criteria fit these books best.
We organized these in order. (I refer to this as the Muhammad All method"—you start punch with your
first reason, "Float like a butterfly"with the second reason, and then"sting like a bee"with your strongest
point).
The students came up with supporting specifics for each point. (I used the word"specifics"so often that
Jena and I thought it a more apt expression than supporting details which has become a rote term to so
many students.)
Then we revised, edited in a series of drafts. Below are the most current drafts.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
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The Promise by Nicole Davies
A Collaborative Review by Fifth Graders at Expedition School
Draft 7
In Nicola Davies' imaginative book, The Promise, people and places come alive with descriptions and
illustrations. The Promise will make you feel as if you've leaped into a rainbow of feelings.
The powerful language allows you to imagine what the main character, an unnamed young girl, is feeling.
She is mean and nasty like her city until a wise old woman opens her eyes to a world of kindness.
The book's illustrations by Laura Carlin show a dark and gloomy city. Silhouettes help you experience the
cruel, soulless people who live there. The book's illustrations remain dull until the girl keeps her promise to
the old woman by planting an entire bag of acorns that bring color into her world.
The theme of change is expressed well in this book. It thoroughly describes, in words and pictures, how
harsh, broken cities and towns can become lush and magnificent. As the illustrations transform, it
becomes clear how everyone can make a difference. The more that people get involved, the greater that
change will be.
The Promise takes readers on a heart-felt journey from despair to joy. We promise you that this inspiring
book will open your eyes and leave you knowing how kindness can grow in your life.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
And here's a glorious student watercolor that perfectly captures the tone of this picture book:
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Watercolor by Raina
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•
Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander
A Collaborative Review by Sixth Graders at Expedition School
Draft 8
In Calvin Alexander's Ruth and the Green Book, an innocent black girl shows you how hard life was during
the times of segregation. Floyd Cooper's realistic illustrations record her struggle to discover where she
belongs.
Ruth, the heroine, is excited about traveling from Chicago to her grandmother's house in Alabama. She
quickly sees the challenges an African-American family faces in the 1950's when she isn't allowed to use
the public bathroom at a gas station. Along the way people show Ruth and her family safer ways to avoid
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
obstacles by giving them The Green Book. This book, written by Victor Green, was a guide to restaurants,
gas stations, and hotels that welcomed African American travelers.
The realistic illustrations give a sense of the period as Cooper represents the style of the 1950's with its
cars, clothing, and buildings. Even more important, his artwork captures the emotions of the characters.
The darkness of the sepia colors add to the sense of Ruth's confusion when she encounters the Jim Crow
laws.
The strongest element in this book is the symbols. For example, Ruth's brown teddy bear is not just a
stuffed animal, it's a symbol of comfort. The Green Book not only guides the family, but represents the
trust they find and a sense of community.
Ruth and the Green Book takes readers on an emotional journey through history as it teaches how
African-Americans found solutions to the many hardships of segregation in the South. This book will really
touch your heart.
Every day we read aloud, had contests for review writing words, and talked about writing and books.
When I told them about all the drafts I'd done of my picture book, Extraordinary Chester, they begged for a
reading. I consented and the class chose a great actor to represent Chester!
Guest comment-This seems to me to be what education should be about, kids being partners in learning.
Loved hearing about the process and witnessing some of the elements of the results. In the interest of full
disclosure, I am Jena's mom. I have witnessed her in her role as teacher/education coach a few times and
love that her classroom is always an exciting place. Not necessarily quiet! How wonderful that you and she
could collaborate in this way. Sorry about the weather interruptions, but it was just a taste of what we New
Englanders experience---especially this past winter.Thank you for offering enrichment to her class.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Fifth Grade--The Promise-Draft 1
In Nicola bavies's book The Promise people and places come alive with poetic
descriptions. Illustrations of The Promise will make you feel as if you've dipped
your head in a bucket of rainbow of feelings, from sadness to thoughtfulness. This
is a book that inspires change.
The poetic descriptions allow you to feel what the character is feeling--
beginning with her nastiness. Then a wise old lady changed her by opening the door
to kindness and gratefulness.
The book's illustrations by , begin really dark and gloomy
(example). 5ilhouttes help you imagine the setting. Everything is just the same
until the girl begins to plant. They lighten as the girl starts planting and gets more
colorful.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Everyone can make a change. If everyone helps it can be a big change. A big
change is always worth it. People can be happy in the harsh times. bon't be dull,
brighten up. The greatest things in life come after a harsh life. Be free, don't be
locked up.
The book thoroughly describes details from a broken city to a lush green
forest.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
The Promise by Nicole Davies
A Collaborative Review by Fifth Graders at Expedition School
Draft 2
In Nicola Davies' book, The Promise, people and places come alive with poetic
descriptions and surprising illustrations. The Promise will make you feel as if
you've dipped your head in a rainbow of feelings.
The powerful language allows you to experience what the main character, a
young girl, is feeling, Like the city in which she lives, she is mean and nasty until a
wise old woman changes her by opening the door to kindness.
The book's illustrations by Laura Carlin show a dark and gloomy city.
Silhouettes help you imagine the lifeless people who live there. The book's
illustrations remain dull until the girl plants, bringing color to her world.
The theme of change is expressed often in this book. The book thoroughly
describes, in words and pictures how a harsh, broken city becomes a lush green
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
forest. As the illustrations change, it becomes clear to readers how everyone can
make a change and the more people get involved, the bigger that change will be.
The Promise takes readers on a heart-felt journey from horrid to happy
feelings. We promise you that this inspiring book will open your eyes and leave you
wondering about how kindness can grow in your life.
The Promise by Nicole Davies
A Collaborative Review by Fifth Graders at Expedition School
Draft 2
In Nicola Davies' book, The Promise, people and places come alive with poetic
descriptions and surprising illustrations. The Promise will make you feel as if
you've dipped your head in a rainbow of feelings.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
The powerful language allows you to experience what the main character, a young
girl, is feeling. Like the city in which she lives, she is mean and nasty until a wise
old woman changes her by opening the door to kindness.
The book's illustrations by Laura Carlin show a dark and gloomy city. Silhouettes
help you imagine the lifeless people who live there. The book's illustrations remain
dull until the girl plants, bringing color to her world.
The theme of change is expressed often in this book. The book thoroughly
describes, in words and pictures how a harsh, broken city becomes a lush green
forest. As the illustrations change, it becomes clear to readers how everyone can
make a change and the more people get involved, the bigger that change will be.
The Promise takes readers on a heart-felt journey from horrid to happy feelings.
We promise you that this inspiring book will open your eyes and leave you
wondering about how kindness can grow in your life.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Draft 3
In Nicola !Davies' book, The Promise, people and places come alive with poetic
descriptions and surprising illustrations. The Promise will make you feel as if
you've leaped into a rainbow of feelings.
The powerful language allows you to imagine what the main character, a
young girl, is feeling. Like the city in which she lives, she is mean and nasty until a
wise old woman changes her by opening the door to kindness.
The book's illustrations by Laura Carlin show a dark and gloomy city.
Silhouettes help you eperience the lifeless people who live there. The book's
illustrations remain dull until the girl plants, bringing color to her world.
The theme of change is expressed often in this book. The book thoroughly
describes, in words and pictures how a harsh, broken city becomes lush and
magnificent. As the illustrations change, it becomes clear to readers how
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
everyone can make a change and the more people get involved, the greater that
change will be.
The Promise takes readers on a heart-felt journey from horrid to happy feelings.
We promise you that this inspiring book will open your eyes and leave you
wondering about how kindness can grow in your life.
braft 4
In Nicola Davies' book, The Promise, people and places come alive with poetic
descriptions and surprising illustrations. The Promise will make you feel as if
you've leaped into a rainbow of feelings.
The powerful language allows you to imagine what the main character, a
young girl, is feeling. Like the city in which she lives, she is mean and nasty until a
wise old woman changes her by opening the door to kindness.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
The book's illustrations by Laura Carlin show a dark and gloomy city.
Silhouettes help you experience the soulless people who live there. The book's
illustrations remain dull until the girl plants and brings life into her world.
The theme of change is expressed often in this book. The book thoroughly
describes, in words and pictures how a harsh, broken city becomes lush and
magnificent. As the illustrations change, it becomes clear to readers how
everyone can make a change in the world and the more people get involved, the
greater that change will be.
The Promise takes readers on a heart-felt journey from horrid to happy feelings.
We promise you that this inspiring book will open your eyes and leave you
wondering about how kindness can grow in your life.
Draft 5
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
In Nicola Davies' imaginative book, The Promise, people and places come alive
with poetic descriptions and surprising illustrations. The Promise will make you
feel as if you've leaped into a rainbow of feelings.
The powerful language allows you to imagine what the main character, an
unnamed young girl, is feeling. Like the city in which she lives, she is mean and
nasty until a wise old woman changes her by opening the door a kindness.
The book's illustrations by Laura Carlin show a dark and gloomy city.
Silhouettes help you experience the soulless people who live there. The book's
illustrations remain dull until the girl keeps her promise by planting and bringing
life into her world.
The theme of change is expressed often in this book. It thoroughly
describes, in words and pictures, how a harsh, broken city can become lush and
magnificent. As the illustrations transform, it becomes clear how everyone can
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
make a difference and the more people get involved, the greater that change will
be.
The Promise takes readers on a heart-felt journey from sad to happy
feelings. We promise you that this inspiring book will open your eyes and leave you
wondering about how kindness can grow in your life.
Draft 6
In Nicola bavies' imaginative book, The Promise, people and places come alive
with poetic descriptions and surprising illustrations. The Promise will make you
feel as if you've leaped into a rainbow of feelings.
The powerful language allows you to imagine what the main character, an
unnamed young girl, is feeling. Like the city in which she lives, she is mean and
nasty until a wise old woman changes her eyes to by a world kindness.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
The book's illustrations by Laura Carlin show a dark and gloomy city.
Silhouettes help you experience the cruel, soulless people who live there. The
book's illustrations remain dull until the girl keeps her promise by planting and
bringing life into her world.
The theme of change is expressed well in this book. It thoroughly
describes, in words and pictures, how harsh, broken cities and towns can become
lush and magnificent, As the illustrations transform, it becomes clear how
everyone can make a difference. The more that people get involved, the greater
that change will be.
The Promise takes readers on a heart-felt journey from sadness to joy. We
promise you that this inspiring book will open your eyes and leave you wondering
about how kindness can grow in your life.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
braft 7
In Nicola Davies' imaginative book, The Promise, people and places come alive
with descriptions and illustrations. The Promise will make you feel as if you've
leaped into a rainbow of feelings.
The powerful language allows you to imagine what the main character, an
unnamed young girl, is feeling. She is mean and nasty like her city until a wise old
woman opens her eyes to a world of kindness.
The book's illustrations by Laura Carlin show a dark and gloomy city.
Silhouettes help you experience the cruel, soulless people who live there. The
book's illustrations remain dull until the girl keeps her promise to the old woman by
planting an entire bag of acorns that bring color into her world.
The theme of change is expressed well in this book. It thoroughly
describes, in words and pictures, how harsh, broken cities and towns can become
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
lush and magnificent. M the illustrations transform, it becomes clear how
everyone can make a difference. The more that people get involved, the greater
that change will be.
The Promise takes readers on a heart-felt journey from despair to joy. We
promise you that this inspiring book will open your eyes and leave you knowing how
kindness can grow in your life.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander
A Collaborative Review by Sixth Graders at Expedition School
Draft 3
In Calvin Alexander's Ruth and the Green Book, an innocent black girl shows
us how hard life was during the times of segregation. Realistic illustrations record
her struggle to find where she belongs. This book will touch your heart.
Ruth, the heroine, is excited about traveling from Chicago to her grandmother's
house in Alabama. Quickly she sees the challenges an African-American family
faces in the 1950's when she is not allowed to use the bathroom at a gas station.
The characters Ruth meets show the family safer ways to meet obstacles they
encounter with the Green Book. This book, written by Victor Green, is a guide to
restaurants, gas stations, and hotels that welcome African-American travelers.
Floyd Cooper's realistic illustrations give a sense of the times as he
represents the styles of the 1950's with its cars, clothing, and buildings. Even
more important, his artwork captures the emotions of the characters. The
darkness of sepia colors add to the sense of Ruth's confusion when she encounters
the Jim Crow laws.
Maybe the strongest element in this book is the symbols. Ruth's brown
teddy bear is not just a stuffed animal, but a symbol of comfort. The Green gook
not only guides the family, but symbolizes trust and sense of community.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Ruth and the Green Book takes readers on an emotional journey through.
history as it teaches how African-Americans found solutions to the hardships of
segregation.
Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander
A Collaborative Review by Sixth Graders at Expedition School
Draft 4
In Calvin Alexander's Ruth and the Green Book, an innocent black girl shows
us how hard life was during the times of segregation. Realistic illustrations record
her struggle to find where she belongs. This book will touch your heart.
Ruth, the heroine, is excited about traveling from Chicago to her
grandmother's house in Alabama. Quickly she sees the challenges an African-
American family faces in the 1950's when she is not allowed to use the bathroom at
a gas station. Some of the characters Ruth meets show the family safer ways to
meet obstacles they encounter with the Green Book. This book, written by Victor
Green, is a guide to restaurants, gas stations, and hotels that welcome African-
American travelers.
Floyd Cooper's realistic illustrations give a sense of the times as he
represents the styles of the 1950's with its cars, clothing, and buildings. Even
more important, his artwork captures the emotions of the characters. The
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
darkness of the sepia colors add to the sense of Ruth's confusion when she
encounters the Jim Crow laws.
The strongest element in this book is the symbols. Ruth's brown teddy bear is not
just a stuffed animal, but a symbol of comfort. The Green Book not only guides
the family, but represents trust and sense of community.
Ruth and the Green Book takes readers on an emotional journey through
history as it teaches how African-Americans found solutions to many hardships of
segregation.
Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander
A Collaborative Review by Sixth Graders at Expedition School
Draft 5
In Calvin Alexander's Ruth and the Green Book, an innocent black girl shows
us how hard life was during the times of segregation, Floyd Cooper's realistic
illustrations record her struggle to find where she belongs. This book will touch
your heart.
Ruth, the heroine, is excited about traveling from Chicago to her
grandmother's house in Alabama. Quickly she sees the challenges an African-
American family faces in the 195O's when she is not allowed to use the bathroom at
a gas station. Along the way people show Ruth and her family m safer ways to meet
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
obstacles by giving them The Green Book. This book, written by Victor Green, is a
guide to restaurants, gas stations, and hotels that welcome African-American
travelers.
The realistic illustrations give a sense of the times as he represents the
styles of the 1950's with its cars, clothing, and buildings. Even more important, his
artwork captures the emotions of the characters. The darkness of the sepia
colors add to the sense of Ruth's confusion when she encounters the Jim Crow
laws.
The strongest element in this book is the symbols. Ruth's brown teddy bear
is not just a stuffed animal, but a symbol of comfort. The Green Book not only
guides the family, but represents trust and sense of community.
Ruth and the Green Book takes readers on an emotional journey through
history as it teaches how African-Americans found solutions to many hardships of
segregation.
Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander
A Collaborative Review by Sixth Graders at Expedition School
Draft 6
In Calvin Alexander's Ruth and the green Book, an innocent black girl shows
you how hard life was during the times of segregation. F;loyd Cooper's realistic
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
illustrations record her struggle to find where she belongs. This book will touch
your heart.
Ruth, the heroine, is excited about traveling from Chicago to her
grandmother's house in Alabama. She quickly sees the challenges an African-
American family faces in the 1950's when she is not allowed to use the bathroom at
a gas station. Along the way people show Ruth and her family safer ways to meet
obstacles by giving them The Green Book. This book, written by Victor Green, is a
guide to restaurants, gas stations, and hotels that welcome African-American
travelers.
The realistic illustrations give a sense of the period as he represents the
style of the 1950's with its cars, clothing, and buildings. Even more important, his
artwork captures the emotions of the characters. The darkness of the sepia
colors add to the sense of Ruth's confusion when she encounters the Jim Crow
laws.
The strongest element in this book is the symbols. For example, Ruth's
brown teddy bear is not just a stuffed animal, it's a symbol of comfort. The Green
Book not only guides the family, but represents trust and sense of community.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Ruth and the Green Book takes readers on an emotional journey through
history as it teaches how African-Americans found solutions to many hardships of
segregation.
Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander
A Collaborative Review by Sixth Graders at Expedition School
Draft 8
In Calvin Alexander's Ruth and the Green Book, an innocent black girl shows
you how hard life was during the times of segregation. Floyd Cooper's realistic
illustrations record her struggle to discover where she belongs.
Ruth, the heroine, is excited about traveling from Chicago to her
grandmother's house in Alabama. She quickly sees the challenges an African-
American family faces in the 1950's when she isn't allowed to use the public
bathroom at a gas station. Along the way people show Ruth and her family safer
ways to avoid obstacles by giving them The Green Book. This book, written by
Victor Green, was a guide to restaurants, gas stations, and hotels that welcomed
African-American travelers.
The realistic illustrations give a sense of the period as Cooper represents
the style of the 1950's with its cars, clothing, and buildings. Even more important,
his artwork captures the emotions of the characters. The darkness of the sepia
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
colors add to the sense of Ruth's confusion when she encounters the Jim Crow
laws.
The strongest element in this book is the symbols. For example, Ruth's
brown teddy bear is not just a stuffed animal, it's a symbol of comfort. The Green
Book not only guides the family, but represents the trust they find and a sense of
community.
Path and the Green Book takes readers on an emotional journey through
history as it teaches how African--Americans found solutions to the many hardships
of segregation in the South. This book will really touch your heart.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
Narrative-Writing Residency at South Warren Elementary
with Susie Wilde
Let Worms Dance!
Jennifer Harris' article published in The Warren Record recorded the entire process, giving you a complete
picture of a collaborative narrative residency:
Visiting author sparks imaginations
South Warren students `struck by thunderbolt of creativity'write book about dancing worms, prejudice
during literacy-building project with visiting author
Article originally posted to The Warren Record: Wednesday, March 21, 2012 2:15 pm
By Jennifer Harris
•
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Elementary School"slurped horrible fish juice"during a unique learning activity that focused on literacy
skills and opening their minds to the creative process of story telling.
Susie Wilde, an author, teacher, children's book reviewer and columnist from Chapel Hill, was in the school
Feb, 27-March 2 to lead fourth-and fifth-graders in writing a book. By the end of the week, students had a
fully developed story including"juicy"words, colorful characters, supporting details and an opening
paragraph designed to grab readers' attention.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
piggy would never forget the morning the landlord birds burst into his family's worm hole. He was just
waking when he heard their gravely voices squawk, "Pay your rent, or you're out!"
"It was a great week for us. The children were talking about it this morning," Dr. Tony Cozart, South
Warren's principal, said the Monday after Wilde returned home. "Her being here brought some real direction
for us. We've really been trying to improve our reading comprehension."
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Smith worked together in the creative learning process,with Smith connecting the students with past
information they have had.
"My opportunity to team-teach with Mrs. Wilde was none less than exceptional and ideal for a partnership
of that nature. This experience has catered to the comprehension needs of my students,"Smith said. `We
met daily to assess the writing needs of our students and create exciting and engaging lessons."
Wilde uses a stick figure called a"Story Skeleton"to help teach the writing process to older youth, with
each body part representing a different story element. During an exercise that reinforced reading
comprehension, Wilde read aloud "Ruth and the Green Book"and had students assign story elements to
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
the skeleton. The head represented the main character, strands of hair were character traits, the spine was
the character's motivation, ribs represented conflicts, and so on.
The students later applied the same exercise in developing their own story, which had a break-dancing,
Mohawk-wearing earthworm named Diggy as the main character, and prejudice against dancing worms as
a theme.
The only thing he loved more than dancing was his family. He'd do anything to keep a roof over their heads
and make sure they were safe from predators. So after supper, the night crawler slithered into his skinny
jeans, wiggled into his tight T-shirt, and decorated himself with every bit of bling he owned. He popped his
snap back over his red and black Mohawk and scooted into the streets of Hollywood.
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learning, Wilde rewarded them with free books for displaying vocabulary knowledge of words like simile and
alliteration, for skill in writing"showing"statements using vivid verbs, and for"Slurping Horrible Fish Juice"
to describe supporting details—what you can See in a scene, Hear in a scene,Feel in a scene and Juicy
words.
...Slimey was a dazzling, dynamite, dancing machine.
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
In addition to working with the students, Wilde held a session for parents and led a professional
development workshop with South Warren's teachers where she went through the Story Skeleton exercise,
as well as using a Story Train, which is designed for teaching younger children.
"I was very happy with this,"Cozart said. "The Story Skeleton or Story Train gives a visual way for
teachers to lay out the framework of a story, talk about a story and dissect it. It helps the students with
their level of comprehension."
Reading comprehension is an area the school has focused on improving since a needs assessment was
performed last year, the principal added.
"Since(then), we've really been working to increase our student engagement, but some of the students
weren't engaged and learning like we wanted,"Cozart said. "Every time I came in (to observe Wilde)the
level of engagement was high. We'll be able to use those same strategies. We got the kind of help we
needed in an area that's been a challenge for us...especially with the new Common Core Curriculum that's
coming up (in the 2012-13 school year)."
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The energetic Wilde, who has a passion for teaching
in rural areas, was just as impressed with her experience.
"This was the best residency I've ever had. A lot of it is Ashley, and a lot is the subject,"she said.
"(Ashley)was co-teaching the whole time. She's very familiar with curriculum needs, such as helping the
DocuSign Envelope ID: DFE48D81-9420-4D95-8D95-610AC101030F
students make text-to-world connections they have to get on end-of-grade tests. She takes my work above
and beyond."
Developing the subject of the students' story—prejudice experienced by Diggy, who needs to earn money
for his family by break dancing—taught Wilde a few things, too. She wasn't familiar with break dance terms
and certain types of apparel, such as a snapback hat, worn by Diggy.
...he busted out his signature move. His Robot was such a hit that traffic stopped for blocks. Worms and
people cheered and the cars beeped.
"The kids were struck by a thunderbolt of creativity. They had Funds of Knowledge about break dancing,
and 1 had Funds of Knowledge about writing,"she said. "They did incredible work, and they got up and
break danced for me the last day. The kids had to teach me about that."