Hey, kiddo: A Visit from Author-Illustrator Jarrett Krosoczka

Teachers in Washington Township understand that an exceptional education goes beyond educating the mind; it must also educate the heart.

To that end, each year, 10th graders at North Central High School are asked to read HEY, KIDDO, a graphic memoir by award-winning, New York Times bestselling author-illustrator Jarrett Krosoczka. The book, a finalist for the National Book Award, details the emotional trauma Jarrett experienced as a teen while navigating divorce, living with his grandparents, and a having parent with substance abuse issues.

North Central English teacher Sylvia Burlock saw the impact this book had on her students, and wanted to give them more: an opportunity to speak with the author himself. Not only could he educate students about the process of creating a graphic novel, but he could also share more about the life experiences he detailed in his memoir.

“We teach memoir texts like HEY, KIDDO to build nonfiction literary skills, but also social-emotional ones,” said Ms. Burlock. “I wanted to bring in Jarrett to talk about how he was able to go through that emotional trauma, persevere and become a successful professional. I wanted students to learn how to process and overcome their own emotional trauma, and develop a sense of belonging.”

Thanks to our donors, the Foundation was able to provide Ms. Burlock with a grant to fund a virtual visit by Mr. Krosoczka. The interactive talk was open to any North Central student who wanted to attend.

“The students were very engaged,” said Ms. Burlock. “He gave drawing demonstrations, and showed how he creates his graphic novels. Several students were interested in that aspect of it, in how he processed his emotions through his art.”

NC English teacher Sylvia Burlock and graphic novelist Jarrett Krosoczka (screen)
NC students ask graphic novelist Jarrett Krosoczka questions during his virtual author visit

For other students, Mr. Krosoczka’s personal story hit home.

“Other students really identified with his story,” said Ms. Burlock. “A student who had lost a parent to substance abuse asked how Jarrett processed his mother’s death from a heroin addiction. Another identified with Jarrett’s estranged relationship with his father, and asked about that piece.”

Throughout the visit, students asked questions, showed off their own artwork and shared their own stories and experiences with the award-winning author.

“I wanted students to be able to meaningfully engage with someone who has been through something socially and emotionally relevant to them,” said Ms. Burlock. “Meeting Jarrett as an adult after reading about his experiences when he was their age, that connection makes them want to interact with his books more in the future, and hopefully will lead to a lifelong love of reading.”

Check out photos of Mr. Krosoczka’s visit below! To learn how you can support more programs like these, click here

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