On October 23rd I had the pleasure of participating in the 5th annual “Virtual Author Visit” with a class of undergraduate students who attend Pace University’s School of Education. The class is taught by Dr. Elizabeth Smith, who is an Assistant Professor at Pace. In addition to their coursework, the students are currently engaged in field work in elementary schools and pre-school facilities. The session focused on my first book, Jamal and Me, but my other two books were folded into the discussion as well. In addition, the students discussed a recent classroom assignment that featured integrating the New York State Education Department’s Culturally Responsive Sustaining Education Framework, which helps educators create student-centered classrooms that celebrate diversity. An animated discussion ensued.
Below are quotes from some of the reflections the students wrote after my visit.
“The role of children’s book authors in literacy is so important, and as an educator it is our job to take the right books and have kids experience new ideas. Talking to Carol Franks-Randall just reinforced my idea of consistency and noticing patterns, but also reminding me when I should help students and when I should allow them to explore on their own.” A. L., Pace University Student
“It was interesting to see how an author can be so knowledgeable about many different aspects of different books. I also found it interesting how Carol Franks-Randall spoke about us (future teachers) and said we may not really be ready to teach until we are in our own classrooms. I feel this is incredibly important to know since it validate our nervousness and questions we may have that go beyond making lesson plans or reading textbooks.” A.T., Pace University Student
“Some takeaways I have are how passionate Carol Franks-Randall is and how important children’s books are.” M.V., Pace University Student
One student, H.V. created a graphic to capture her takeaways from our session:
Thank you, Dr. Elizabeth Smith for inviting me to your class and co-presenting a meaningful and insightful discussion. I enjoyed sharing my writing journey with your students and learning how they are integrating New York State Education Department’s Culturally Responsive Sustaining Education Framework into their practicum experience.