Fourth-grade students in Ms. Chelsea Mikles’ class at Pattison Elementary are discovering that the most rewarding part of writing can be seeing their work come to life in print.
Through a Halloween-themed writing project, students partnered with classmates to create original stories that were compiled into a published class book through Student Treasures. Students also had the option to submit independent pieces, resulting in a collection of more than 30 imaginative Halloween tales, each paired with student-created illustrations.
“It was kind of exciting because I’ve never had this before, and it was really cool to see my story in an actual book,” said Leah D.
Beyond the final product, the experience itself reinforced the value of student voice and creativity. By brainstorming ideas, collaborating with peers, and working through the challenge of developing original stories, students gained confidence in their abilities and a strong sense of pride in their work. Holding a published book with their name inside helped reinforce that their ideas matter and that their efforts can lead to something meaningful and lasting.
“Students have been able to enjoy this themed writing, while having the freedom to create and collaborate with peers,” said Ms. Chelsea Mikles.
When students shared the finished book with their families, many experienced the joy of reading their stories aloud at home, extending the pride and excitement beyond the classroom.
“It was exciting to see my own work in there and know that my family and other people could read something I created,” added Hadley P.
This project reflects the district’s Portrait of an Eagle competencies in action, emphasizing creativity, collaboration, communication, and confidence while empowering students to see themselves as authors, artists, and storytellers.