Harlem sophomores write and illustrate children’s book, will compete in national competition

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Two Harlem sophomores wrote and illustrated their own children’s book “A New York Christmas Tree’s Tale” and are going to compete in the National Educators Rising Conference.

Harlem Sophomores Payton Filpowicz and Averey Anderson said the takeaway from the book is that being different is okay.

“There’s a Christmas tree and he gets bullied a lot. But then he has a friend, so he kind of works it out and becomes one of the most popular Christmas trees in New York,” said Anderson. “We just wanted something that like can be different in all shapes and sizes and can make students learn to like, be nice to everyone.”

The book earned third place for children’s literature at the state competition in March. This summer, the authors will take it nationals in Washington, D.C.

“Three Illinois schools are competing overall in the Nationals, and Harlem is one of them. The district is supporting us financially to attend this national competition,” said Educators Rising Club Advisor Staci Hubley-Taylor. “The Harlem Federation of Teachers are very supportive of our program as well.”

The Educators Rising Club is a nationwide program for students interested in becoming teachers. It started at Harlem four years ago and has grown to 26 members.

The state competition also had opportunities for them to hear from educators.

“It was very informational,” said Anderson “Like I got to learn a lot about teaching and I feel like this program, like I feel like lots of schools should have it because it can help you decide what you want to do.”

For the first time, the club will be sending students to compete at the national level.

“I’m so excited about the memories we’re going to make, whether we win or lose,” said Flipowicz. “I think it’s going to be so much fun and it’s just going to be a great opportunity we can get to do.”

The National Educators Rising Conference will be held in Washington, D.C. at the end of June.

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