The Writer’s Project inspires third graders

By Linda Fields
MILFORD — Third graders in the Delaware Valley School District were introduced to Helen Keller in October by participating in the tenth annual Writer’s Project, an educational partnership with the American Readers Theatre (ART) and with the support of The Dime Bank and Wayne Bank.
The students learned about Keller’s extraordinary triumph over her disabilities with an interdisciplinary approach to learning. They engaged in projects requiring research and writing, speaking, reading and drawing, all of which incorporate aspects of Keller’s life. The project culminated with a dramatic reading about Keller by two actors with ART.
ART Director Jeffrey Stocker is excited to return to the school district this year.
“The students and the teachers are remarkable," Stocker said. "It’s so rewarding to work with them.”
He explained that the Writer’s Project aims to nurture an interest in classic literature by exploring the cultural and historical context of great books and their writers.
“It’s an innovative way to enhance literacy," he said
Third-graders at Shohola Elementary, Dingman Delaware Elementary and Delaware Valley Elementary Schools are all participating. Said Diana Bixby, the principal of Shohola Elementary School, “I’m so appreciative — we always like to have the community connection and to see experts from the field come in and really get the kids excited about reading.”
She pointed out that the collaborative group work was rewarding for the students.
Stocker emphasized his appreciation for the DVSD partnership and acknowledges the generous support of The Dime Bank and Wayne Bank, which have affiliated with the Writer’s Project through Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC).