Leaphart Elementary School STEAM Magnet proudly announces the publication of two delightful children’s books authored by its dedicated educators, Lisa Nicholson, a 5th-grade teacher, and Jill Downs, a Literacy Coach.
In “Tattoo on my Heart” by Lisa Nicholson, readers are taken on a heartwarming journey that explores the power of embracing one’s uniqueness. Following Jackie, a young girl born with a port-wine stain, the story transforms hurtful words into building blocks of empowerment. Drawing inspiration from her older sister’s experiences and in her 6th year of teaching, Nicholson aims to share a message of positivity and self-acceptance with children. The book’s takeaway is a powerful reminder that even on the toughest days, focusing on the positive, being oneself, and understanding that differences do not define us can lead to a more enriched life.
Jill Downs, a seasoned educator and reading coach, debuts her children’s book, “Molly Meadow’s Christmas Wish.” The story follows Molly on a quest to discover the true meaning of Christmas, emphasizing that the most special gifts come from the heart. Downs was inspired to write the book after noticing a need for fresh, quality holiday stories. “Molly Meadow’s Christmas Wish” encourages young readers to value the importance of reading, writing journals, and community connections. The narrative also highlights the interaction of older community members with a young child, reinforcing the significance of cross-generational bonds.
Leaphart Elementary School STEAM Magnet commends Lisa Nicholson and Jill Downs for their commitment to inspiring young minds through literature. The school congratulates them on their respective publications, noting that these heartfelt stories not only contribute to the literary world but also resonate with the school’s ethos of fostering creativity, positivity, and a love for learning.
The Leaphart Elementary School community is honored to have these educators within their building, passionately inspiring and educating their community of learners.
