Jan,

During our second round of A4L training, one of the teachers told me about the impact the graphic story unit had on one of his students. I asked him if he’d mind sending me an email about it to send to national, and he said he’d be happy to do so. The only change I have made to his email, which is below, is to delete the student’s name for the sake of privacy.

Subject: RE: 2nd Quarter Victory

Thanks so much for giving hope to a student that had very little before this unit. Overall, the graphic story adventure unit was a big hit with my 7th grade students. I noticed that attendance, grades, and student productivity increased due to this collaboration with Arts Partners. Let me also state how it's nice to work with the professional people at Arts Partners.

The student I mentioned earlier, xxxxxxx, is a special ed student. His grades before the project were mostly F's. He did not do well in a regular class. He did not complete assignments or turn them in. He spent most of his time drawing pictures. I knew right away this project would change his life.

He is gifted in the area of drawing characters. After seeing his pictures, the students in the class were amazed at his talent. They gave him so much attention during this project that I suggested that he charge them for his autograph - since the other students would not be able to afford it later when he became a famous 'graphic artist'.

His entire persona changed during this project, his metamorphosis was fun to watch. He became more confident among his peers -before he had little interaction with anyone. He volunteered to read aloud for the first time all year! He was walking the halls with his head held high - before he would not be noticed. His posture in class and his work ethic dramatically improved.

He often was seen with 3-4 students around his desk explaining his latest drawings. I heard from his other teachers that remarked how much better he was doing in their classes. This project changed the life of (this student). I get emotional just thinking about how much he has improved. Thanks so much for the opportunity to be a small part of this research project. I am excited to start the drama project for the 3rd quarter. I know my students are too!