Creating Lifelong Readers at Hilder Pearson Elementary School
This April, the North Kitsap School District celebrates National School Library Month by highlighting the remarkable Library Media Specialists who enrich our schools.
Creating Lifelong Readers at Hilder Pearson Elementary School
Jennifer Nelson, a devoted educator with a decade of experience teaching 3rd and 4th grades before transitioning to the library, has found her true calling. Celebrating ten years at Pearson, Nelson's enthusiasm for her role is palpable as she engages with kindergarten through 5th-grade students, guiding their growth as readers and individuals.
A Passion for Books and Learning
Nelson's deep love for literature is evident in her affectionate term for her favorite books, "Huggers." This term was inspired by Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo, a book so impactful that her third-grade class physically embraced it. This heartfelt approach to reading helps instill a love for books in her students, showing them that literature can deeply touch our emotions and lives.
Cultivating Connection Through Book Clubs
A weekly highlight for Ms. Nelson is the 5th-grade book club she hosts during lunch and recess. This club fosters a love of reading among older elementary students. It allows them to experience the joy and community of discussing powerful stories together. Ms. Nelson cherishes these moments as they reinforce the transformative power of shared literary experiences.
Impact Beyond the Library
Jennifer Nelson's role extends beyond just managing the school library; she is pivotal in her students' educational journeys at Hilder Pearson Elementary. By fostering an environment where literature is not just read but celebrated and deeply felt, Nelson ensures that the library is a welcoming space for exploration, growth, and emotional development. Through her dedicated efforts, students learn to appreciate books as educational tools and sources of comfort and joy, shaping them into thoughtful readers and compassionate individuals.