Birmingham Education Foundation presents Patricia Polacco, Author in Residence

The Birmingham Education Foundation (BEF) announced that celebrated children's book author and native Michigander, Dr. Patricia Polacco will be this year's Author in Residence. As part of the annual BEF-sponsored program, Dr. Polacco will speak with BPS elementary and middle school students, as well as meet with the community for an evening event on October 10.

Born in Lansing, Michigan to immigrant parents from Russia and Ireland, Dr. Polacco is one of the most highly sought-after K-12 lecturer and keynote speakers in the country. Her gift of story telling, supported by her love of cultures and education, has been chronicled in the more than 115 books she has written and illustrated. Dr. Polacco has received countless awards and recognitions, which have included recognition from heads of state at both the White House and The Kremlin.

"We're so thrilled to bring an author of Dr. Polacco's caliber to the district and the community," said Alison Hendry, Executive Director of the BEF. "She is an advocate for children and for the classroom teachers who dedicate their lives to teaching them. Dr. Polacco uses her voice to encourage students to reach out to each other and include those who are perceived to be 'different.' We hope that the community will take the opportunity to hear her important talk next Monday night."

In addition to speaking with students, Dr. Polacco welcomes interested community members to an evening event on Oct. 10 at 7:00 p.m. in the Seaholm High School Auditorium. Dr. Polacco will be joined on stage by BCS teacher and 2015-16 Michigan Teacher of the Year, Rick Joseph, for a conversation of her works and her inspirations. For his part, Joseph said that throughout his career, he's been personally inspired by Dr. Polacco's works.

"Dr. Polacco's tireless dedication to children and as an international advocate for the rights of children has made her a personal hero of mind," he said. "I'm so thankful that the BEF has brought her to our community as this year's Author in Residence."

Among Dr. Polacco's most acclaimed books are Thank you, Mr. Falker, The Keeping Quilt, and The Junkyard Wonders, which touch on a wide variety of topics including bullying and understanding differences, learning disabilities, tradition and heritage, family relationships and more.

All are welcome to attend the October 10th event, which is presented with support from the School Community Partnership. The event is free of charge, though a $10 donation is suggested. The event will be an extension of her student presentions. Students are welcome, though the discussion will be geared towards an adult audience.

For more information on Dr. Polacco's visit, or the Monday evening event, please contact BEF Executive Director, Alison Hendry at bef@birmingham.k12.mi.us or 248-203-3030 or visit the BEF website: supportbef.org.