On Saturday, April 27, the Regional Office of Education hosted the 33rd annual Young Authors Conference at Edwardsville High School, welcoming 250 talented students throughout Madison County. This event serves as a platform to honor the achievements of young writers from both public and private schools.
Madison County Regional Superintendent of Schools Rob Werden awarded each student a certificate recognizing their achievement as a Young Author. The ceremony was a moment of pride for the students and their families alike.
Following the certificate ceremony, attendees were treated to an engaging presentation by local author, Jennifer Ward. With over 25 children’s books to her name, Jennifer shared her journey from a young aspiring writer to a published author, drawing inspiration from nature, birds, and the wonders of the great outdoors. Her stories captivate young readers and instill a love for reading and writing.
Throughout the conference, students could share their books with peers and participate in group activities. Each student received a gift bag and snacks. Additionally, families were invited to a session led by local author Rae Lee. Rae shared insights into the writing and publishing process, encouraging parents to nurture their children’s passion for writing.
The success of this event would not have been possible without the dedication and support of our volunteers. Their commitment ensured a memorable experience for all involved.