Mrs. Katie Casterton’s second grade class at John Cline Elementary School recently published their own animal book. This was made possible by the McElroy Excellence in Education Enrichment Grant through Keystone AEA. Mrs. Casterton applied for the grant and received enough money for each student to have their own hardcover book published by School Mate Publishing.

The students spent time researching an animal of their choice, creating a rough draft, revising with a peer and adult, and then turning their polished writing into a page of the book. Casterton remarked, “The students enjoyed learning more about an animal of their choice and seeing their work turned into a real book!”

The purpose of the McElroy grant is to provide funding for a small but important idea a teacher has to provide enrichment to the curriculum. It includes innovative, educational experiences for students and demonstrates excellence in education.

Mrs. Casterton’s class shows off the book they collectively wrote. 

Marshall Delaney shows off his page of the class book.