Local authors speak at schools to promote literacy

On March 28, Elk Ridge Middle School also held a literacy event with Alane Ferguson, a forensic novelist. Some of Ferguson's works include "Cricket and the Crackerbox Kid" and "The Christopher Killer." There were several activities planned for the evening including fingerprinting and "whodunit" scenarios, along with several different games including map and board games. The event was themed "CSI: Elk Ridge, a Night of Murder and Mystery." The school's cafeteria also provided dinner for a dollar for attendees.
As part of the national Read Across America program, many schools in Jordan School District planned literacy nights in March to help the students realize the importance of reading. These events started at the beginning of the month with elementary schools recognizing Dr. Seuss' birthday.

Several other schools joined the celebration of reading by inviting authors to speak to the students about the importance of reading. These events were scheduled throughout the month to be something that the whole family could attend.

On March 24, Herriman Elementary held a literacy night. This event was highlight by the presence of author Brad Wilcox. Wilcox read some of his own works, including "Hip Hip Hooray Annie McRae," to the students. Wilcox was also available for autographs for the students.

Wilcox also had several discussions with both the students and parents about the importance of reading and writing. "He is a great model for parents as to what reading with a child should look like," Terri Schmidt, the literacy coach at Herriman, said.

Each student at Herriman Elementary was able to receive a free copy of a book of his or her choice. These books were provided by Principal Joel Pullan who purchased a variety of age appropriate books for the students. Wilcox also had a selection of his own books for sale throughout the evening. ?

Elk Ridge offered the event to students and their families. The goal of the event was to encourage reading as a fun, family activity. The school also held a book fair hosted by Barnes and Noble the same evening.
"Alane really went beyond the mark with the kids," Ruth Bradford, Elk Ridge's librarian said. "She really is a delightful person."

Alane Ferguson, a local author, gave a presentation
at Elk Ridge Middle School. Students were able to
participate in several activities throughout the day
with Ferguson as well as a presentation she
held in the evening for students and their families.

By Alisha Tondro for The South Valley Journal

Published in April 2011 in Riverton, Utah

http://www.southvalleyjournal.com/pages/full_story/?id=6030&type=Articles&numitems=1&startitem=0&showimages=1