After a fun-filled end of 2024, we’ve started out the first quarter of 2025 by creating New Year’s Resolutions, learning about Spokane author Kelly Milner Halls as we get ready for her visit on January 21. And this week, we are researching Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. If he were still alive, he would be 96 on Wednesday, January 15.
Me in my work clothes being in charge of a few school events and making uncessary updates to compelling lessons…probably running late.
We have 20 of Kelly’s 50 published books for elementary and middle school readers.
Cozy Up to Reading: A Pacific Northwest Wonderland
Join us on the evening of January 21, right after the Martin Luther King holiday, for a fun and creative celebration of reading and writing! We’re calling it “Cozy Up to Reading: A Pacific Northwest Wonderland.” Fingers crossed for a light dusting of snow—not enough to make the roads tricky, but just enough to invite everyone into the warmth of storytelling. (Cold weather is perfect for our theme!)
We’re thrilled to host two incredible guests:
- Jennifer Lebrett, a Spokane Tribal member, will share the story of Salmon Boy, a legend of the Sechelt People. According to fifth-grade teacher Kristen Labrie, “Salmon are a vital part of Native culture, especially here in Spokane. The Spokane Tribe relied heavily on salmon for survival, gathering annually at Spokane Falls to witness the salmon’s return to spawn. Salmon Boy teaches the importance of protecting these incredible creatures.” Mrs. Labrie’s class is currently raising salmon eggs in a freshwater tank, and attendees will get to meet the baby salmon while hearing this remarkable story.
- Kelly Milner Halls, an award-winning author known for her fascinating books on dinosaurs, life-saving animals, and paranormal phenomena, will spend the day inspiring our students with her craft. She describes herself as “the kid who asked too many questions” and writes thoughtful non fiction to help other curious kids get answers. She’ll join us in the evening to share her passion for smart storytelling with young audiences.
The evening will also feature:
- Hands-on activities like creating texture books and bookmarks.
- A bookwalk with exciting prizes.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you—mark your calendar and cozy up to an unforgettable night of reading, storytelling, and creativity!
And due to popular demand, the Scholastic Book fair is coming in exactly a month! We’ll be holding it during parent teacher conferences, with the first 1.5 days dedicated to students creating book wishlists and purchasing. It will be open to the public the afternoon of February 12, just after school lets out on the half day (first day of parent teacher conferences) It will run until 5:30pm. We will run the fair noon-7:30pm on February 13 and 8am-12noon on Friday February 14. The theme? For the LOVE of Reading, because Valentines Day 💞
See? That is why I’m moving briskly and wearing my best hat and carrying a briefcase. Running a school library is serious business! And I love it.
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