The first session, “What to do after level 30” was a 2-hour presentation on how to use children’s literature as the focus for the classroom reading program. The topics ranged from how to select a “Just Right” book to record keeping for both teachers and students, book trailers and classroom libraries. Scholastic, a CBCA SA Branch sponsor supported the event with free giveaways, a chance to win a poetry pack and the opportunity of a free copy of a Donalyn Miller book. Another sponsor, Greenlight Comics kindly gave each attendee a comic pack to take away.
There was an hour break for lunch, after which the second afternoon session, “A Mixed Bag” Arts PD 3-hour presentation began. There were 2 guest presenters, Kristin Martin, poet and Lauren Mullinder, illustrator who gave wonderful hands on presentations on poetry writing and dragon drawing.
A variety of presenters gave informative talks with examples on how to connect the arts and writing to children’s literature, in particular the 2020 Short list and Notables books.There were many examples of APS student's work on display.
At each presentation a raffle was held where the winning prize was original artwork by Greg Holdfeld and Greg kindly donated signed copies of his books as part of the prize.
In total, there were 90 tickets sold to the PD day.