K4’s at Lasalle Junior Write a Book About Belonging

by Stef Gervasi, CAPDA & Shyla Khan, teacher

LaSalle Junior K4 teacher Shyla Khan recently took on a very special project with her class. Passionate about creativity and storytelling, decided to write a children’s book about her class. Shyla saw this as an opportunity to create something meaningful that would allow her students to share their voices.

We are fortunate to have received an intercultural grant that provides $500 to support projects like this. While these grants are often used to bring in artists or guest presenters, they can also support innovative classroom initiatives.

This project is a wonderful example of how these funds can be used in unique ways. It is also a lasting keepsake that celebrates culture, diversity & belonging.

Miss Shyla felt many emotions for wanting to create this book:

“Writing the book started out as a class activity during Storytime where we were discussing what makes each of us feel special and unique!”

“That snowballed into us drawing individual pictures the next day of things we can do that make us feel special. We talked about how we all have different talents, and at home we have different family and cultural activities, which is something to celebrate!”

“I was proud that the children were able to contribute to these kinds of discussions at such a young age. It really was fun to create this book together!” said Miss Shyla.

This project has opened our creative minds to do future projects. Ones that could leave memories for our students.