An Inspiring Author Visit We Wanted to Share With You
By Katie Ritchie, Melissa Horn and Brian Balfany, Hamilton School District As principals, we strive to offer enriching experiences for our students. We recently welcomed best-selling author Diane Nienas to both of our schools, and the experience was so powerful that we wanted to share Diane’s information with our colleagues around the state. Diane visited our schools and shared her heartwarming children’s book series, "Living Life with Leo," which chronicles the adaptive adventures of her son, Leo, a boy with special needs who lived a full and vibrant life despite his disabilities. Diane’s storytelling captivated our students and taught them valuable lessons in kindness, teamwork, acceptance, inclusion, and friendship. These lessons resonated deeply with our students and enhanced their understanding of how our differences make us unique. Interactive and Educational Diane’s visit was more than a book reading; it was an interactive experience tailored to each audience and grade level. All students marveled at the incredible experiences Leo had—from sled dog racing to water skiing, Leo did amazing things in every season! Our youngest learners eagerly participated in finding the hidden cardinal on each page—a symbol of Leo’s spirit. Elementary students created cardinal crafts to connect with the story, while our 5th and 6th graders worked with Diane to craft their own powerful narrative stories. Celebrating All Students Parents of our students with special needs particularly appreciated that Diane's visit celebrated and included all students. Her approach aligns with the values of our parents who have children with IEPs, reflecting their hopes and experiences. A Memorable Learning Experience Inviting Diane Nienas to your school will undoubtedly enrich your students’ learning experience. Her ability to connect with children and convey powerful messages through her books is truly remarkable. The lessons learned from "Living Life with Leo" will leave a lasting impact on your students, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate school community while also inspiring young authors. Diane’s visits respect individual family values and adhere to public school guidelines, ensuring a respectful and inclusive experience for all. While Diane frequently discusses her Christian faith in various settings, her presentations at schools are purely educational and do not promote or endorse any particular religion. For more information on how to bring Diane and her series to your school, visit her website and discover how to share Leo’s love for adventure with your students. Don’t miss this opportunity to provide an unforgettable and educational experience for your school. https://www.dianenienas.com/speaking/schools/ |
