Often educators’ creativity spills over into a book, blog, app or other work. We’re happy to showcase members’ talents.
“I Am Powerful!”
Speech language pathologist, author and UTLA/ NEA member Angela Adley has a new book, I Am Powerful, and So Are You, the first in a unique series to promote self-help, self-esteem and confidence in children K–3. One primary exercise for readers demonstrates how superpowers are voice activated, starting with the words “I am” in your statement and concluding with the word “now” (for example, “I am… great at math…now!”). Writing these statements down is also a powerful tool to unlock the biggest desires of our hearts —something we can all learn. At Archway Publishing and Amazon.
Superheroes Among Us
After many years in the classroom, Spanish teacher CJ Charles noticed that students had lost the ability to see the daily superheroes in their lives. So she wrote My Mother is a Superhero /¡Mi mamá es unasuperheroína!, in which 6-year-old Justine thinks her mother Alice is a superhero because she can do amazing things. The Murrieta Educators Association member followed up with Mrs. April is a Superhero/ La Sra. Abril es una superheroina, where Justine also finds her teacher to be amazing. The bilingual books provide much needed representation in children’s literature and also teach children ages 2–10 to appreciate those daily, caring adults in their lives. On Amazon and mymotherisasuperhero.com.
Meeting Life Challenges
Fifth grade teacher and San Ramon Valley Education Association member Lisa Freels has written two novels for upper elementary students, Fourth Grade Heroes and Fourth Grade Changes. They deal with students who must cope with changes — both personal and in the world — and the challenges that come with them. Freels has incorporated Notice and Note signposts in the books, creating engaging and educational read-alouds for the classroom. She also wrote a novella, Fourth Grade Realizations, that is free to read at Mrs. Freels book website, and is currently working on a third novel as part of this series. At Archway Publishing and Amazon.
All-Important Career Prep
Ralph Jagodka, a professor of business management and former longtime member of Mt. San Antonio College Faculty Association, found that one of the most important issues for his students over the years was career preparation. He developed and continues to update free, comprehensive career resources to fill the need, which are used by students, career advisors and staff. Through interactive pages, students will find not only an online test to identify their interests but resources to explore/prepare for various careers — including writing resumes and interviewing — as well as how gain experience and build skills (class projects, volunteer activities, etc.), network and find appropriate professional development.
