Author and documentary filmmaker James Robinson recently visited Thomas Blake Middle School to share his memoir “Whale Eyes” and discuss acceptance. (Photo Courtesy Medfield Public Schools)
MEDFIELD — Author and documentary filmmaker James Robinson recently visited Thomas Blake Middle School to speak with students about acceptance and inclusion, in a program organized through the school’s library and library programming.
Sixth, seventh and eighth grade students attended Robinson’s presentation and listened as he shared excerpts and lessons from his memoir “Whale Eyes.”
The book details Robinson’s experience growing up with strabismus with alternating exotropia, an eye condition that he explains through a mix of anecdotes and interactive visuals that allow the reader to see the world from Robinson’s point of view.
During the presentation, Robinson discussed the label of “disability” and what it means to him. He spoke about the role of curiosity and empathy in acceptance, as well as his experience in the filmmaking industry.
Students also viewed the book’s accompanying documentary and had the opportunity to ask questions. After the discussion, a group of 30 students were invited to spend a class period with the author for a question and answer session.
Teachers were also treated to a luncheon with Robinson in the Library Media Center, where they discussed his work and asked questions.
The visit was coordinated by Librarian Kiersten Cole and the Blake Middle School library staff.
“Mr. Robinson’s visit was an incredibly impactful experience, and I want to thank him for speaking with our students,” said Principal Nat Vaughn. “This program is a great example of the important work our library does every day. Through Kiersten Cole and our library staff, we are able to bring meaningful learning experiences to our students that connect to every part of our school. Our library truly serves as a hub of learning and community.”
The author visit and books purchased for the staff were funded through a grant from the Medfield Coalition for Public Education, which supports and provides academic enrichment for the Medfield Public Schools.
“Whale Eyes” is the Blake Community Book Club’s current read, with meetings happening once a month through April.
“Inclusion is a value we regard with utmost importance in our schools,” said Superintendent Jeffrey J. Marsden. “We strive to foster community, empathy and kindness, and one of the most impactful ways to encourage those behaviors is by having open conversations like the discussion Mr. Robinson facilitated. We hope our students left the presentation with an evolved understanding of acceptance, and that they will put the lessons learned from him into practice.”
###
Discover more from John Guilfoil Public Relations
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.