Pocatello School Demonstrates Keys for Better Reading and Writing

This is a repost of an article I wrote in 2006 that appeared in the Idaho State Journal. I was recently inspired by a day of substitute teaching at the Pocatello Community Charter School. That morning in the parking lot, I ran into Marjanna Hulet, one of the school’s founders, as I made my way…

Young Journalist’s Book: How to Write and Produce Your Own Newspaper

CBS anchor Scott Pelley said at a speech at Quinnipiac University that journalists “are getting big stories wrong, over and over again,” as quoted by a commenter on The Idaho State Journal politics blog. Young Journalist’s Book: How to Write and Produce Your Own Newspaper, is a great place to help children begin learn the…

A Bad Case Of Stripes: An inspiring Children’s Book with a Positive Message

Although it’s never too late, the importance of getting kids to develop a love for reading early on often correlates with a love for learning, a passion for lifelong reading, and so many other positive traits that ultimately lead to the empowerment needed for success, writes Julie Handler. A bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon is high on this list.

Children’s Books that Build Character

A column called A bicycle for a little girl had me thinking about its connections to children’s literature, reading and learning. “Aren’t you the little girl who is always in here looking at bikes?” Emily nodded. “Is this going to be your bike?” Again she nodded. He smiled and turned to me, “You know, the…

Poetry Time With Charles Waters

Meet actor and poet Charles Waters:   Poetry column: Joy erupts into poetry explosion, promotes literacy By MICHAEL HOOVER For The Evening Sun EXCERPT: Katie Lasky and Charles Waters, two treasures of humanity employed by Poetry Alive!, spent the past couple weeks involving Adams County students in the memorization and performance of poetry by noted…

Building Communities and Embracing Diversity

Notes from a Keynote address to the Idaho Library Association In every county in Idaho, and all across America, I see young people tutoring and mentoring, building homes, caring for seniors, and feeding the hungry. I also see them using their entrepreneurial spirit to build companies, start non-profits, and drive our new economy. We live…