Sembach Elementary School hosts unforgettable virtual author visit with Jerry Pallotta
Sembach Elementary School in Germany recently played host to a captivating Virtual Author Visit featuring renowned children's author, Jerry Pallotta. The event took place on May 3 and provided students with a unique opportunity to engage directly with the author and gain valuable insights into the world of literature.
Amidst a backdrop of anticipation and excitement, students congregated in the old middle school gym currently used as the Professional Development Conference Room, which was meticulously prepared to transform into a hub of literary exploration. Utilizing technology resources, the school facilitated a seamless connection with Pallotta, allowing for an immersive and interactive experience for all attendees.
“I love that Jerry Pallotta was able to meet with us, even though he was in Boston and we are in Sembach, Germany," stated Laura Brown, educational technologist. Pallotta, acclaimed for his imaginative storytelling and prolific literary contributions, captivated the audience with tales from his personal journey as an author. From anecdotes of his formative years to the intricacies of crafting a compelling narrative, Pallotta provided invaluable glimpses into the creative process, inspiring students to embrace their own literary aspirations. Throughout the event, Pallotta graciously shared drafts and unfinished pages from his works, offering students a rare behind-the-scenes look into the art of storytelling. His engaging demeanor and infectious enthusiasm resonated with students, leaving an indelible impression and igniting a newfound passion for literature.
The success of the Virtual Author Visit would not have been possible without the generous support of the Ramstein Officers' Spouses Club (ROSC) and the Sembach Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO). Their unwavering commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for students played a pivotal role in bringing this event to fruition.
Special recognition is also extended to information specialist Jodi Benavides for her efforts and dedication to ensuring the success of the event.
“Fulfilling the ELA standards for DoDEA elementary students requires a much greater emphasis on nonfiction text. Our students absolutely love the ‘Who Would Win?’ books from Jerry Pallotta. They are our only series in nonfiction with their own bin...and it is usually empty. We so appreciate the support of our PTO and the Ramstein Officers' Spouses Club in funding this worthwhile event. Our Sembach ES PTO funded the visit and a ROSC grant paid for all of our students, pre-K through fifth grade, to have their own ‘Who Would Win?’ book. I am so lucky to work in a school as supportive as Sembach Elementary School. So many staff members and admin pitched in to make this happen,” stated Benavides.
The impact of the Virtual Author Visit extends far beyond the confines of Sembach Elementary School, resonating throughout the community and inspiring a love for reading and storytelling among students of all ages.
“The Virtual Author Visit was an amazing experience for all our students! To have the opportunity to see and speak directly with him using our technology resources, made it a very special assembly. He shared stories about how he became an author, where he grew up and gets his inspiration from, and showed us the drafts and pages where his books begin. He even showed us his newest book, even though the last few pages are yet to be painted! Thank you to our fantastic information specialist Jodi Benavides for bringing this event to life!” stated Martha Enyeart, principal of Sembach Elementary School.
