Author David A. Kelly shares his writing journey with Old Hammondtown School students during a recent visit. (Photo Courtesy Old Rochester Regional School District and MA Superintendency Union #55)
MATTAPOISETT — Superintendent Michael S. Nelson and Principal Stephanie Wells are pleased to share that author David A. Kelly visited Old Hammondtown School last week to speak with fourth and fifth graders about writing and creativity.
Kelly, the author of the popular “Ballpark Mysteries” series, spoke candidly about his early frustration with writing and how learning to revise, take feedback and keep trying helped him grow. He shared how his first book took a year to finish and how the initial response from his editor was that it was “terrible.”
Kelly told the students that he rewrote the book several times, improving it each draft until it was accepted for publication.
“This visit gave our students a real look at how writing works,” said Principal Wells. “Mr. Kelly talked about the effort behind his books and showed our students that strong writing comes from practice, patience, perseverance and a willingness to keep trying.”
Kelly donated signed book cards for every student and also gave the school library several books.
“We’re so grateful to Reading Specialist, Mrs. Samost, for arranging this author visit and giving our students the chance to hear such an encouraging message about persistence and growth,” said Principal Wells. “It perfectly reflects our three Cs: Care, Curiosity, and Compassion. Mr. Kelly cared enough about his goal to keep working at it, stayed curious about how to improve, and showed compassion for himself by not giving up when it was hard.”
“We want our students, especially our younger learners, to see themselves as people who can take risks and build their skills with support,” said Superintendent Nelson. “Mr. Kelly’s message supported that goal. He showed our students that progress comes from sticking with an idea and getting better each time you revise with feedback and support from others.”
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