For World Read Aloud Day students of St. John XXIII had a special guest visit on Friday, February 1, 2019, for their educational day.
Canadian award-winning author David Bouchard grew up knowing nothing about his roots, but through the process of his writing, he has learned more about his Metis heritage.
Bouchard entertained students on Friday with song and dance from an array of special flutes as he highlighted his Metis heritage to the children.
Bouchard grew up with a learning disability and he explained to the children that every time God gives you a problem, he also gives you strength.
“Because I had Dyslexia, keeping things in sequence and at a young age I was not discouraged from reading,” Bouchard said.
Holding up a pair of earphones Bouchard encouraged children to learn anyway they can.
Bouchard believes in the power of reading and had a special message for the children of St. John XXIII to encourage them to read.
“Children, I can take you anywhere in the world through reading and song,” Bouchard said.
On Friday, Bouchard took the students all the way to Dublin Ireland with the playing of “Danny Boy” on an Irish Flute.
Bouchard also tested the children’s knowledge from his presentation, awarding students who paid attention with a signed copy of his various books.
Kyro and Kaydrian Jackson received a book each for explaining that the Raven symbolizes honesty, teaching highlighted by Bouchard in his presentation.
Isabella Morales was also one of the students who raised her hand patiently and gave Bouchard the right answer.
The look on Morales’ face was priceless when Bouchard asked her to come to the front of the class to receive a special prize for being so attentive.
Morales had a message for other students around the world about reading.
“Read lots, improve your imagination and enjoy reading,” Morales said.
Metis raconteur David Bouchard is one of Canada’s most sought after public speakers. Though his presentations, children learn about Bouchard’s life experiences and that they are all gifted.