Yesterday, I had the opportunity to hear Devon and Pearlene Clunis read their children’s story The Little Boy From Jamaica. It is beautifully written. Emily Campbell, a student at Red River College was the illustrator. Devon left his birthplace at a young age and attended school here in Winnipeg. Their story’s purpose is to inspire people and to give everyone hope. We all know of children who have “fallen through the cracks” in education. Also, Devon spoke to the audience and solicited that we must give every child the potential to succeed. His former teacher Ms. Hannah believed in him and often would say, “Devon, you will be successful one day; just keep trying!”
Devon met his wife at Grand Beach, Manitoba and twenty five years later they both still support one another through their faith. Devon became the first black police officer and Chief of Police in Winnipeg. His gentle manner is most admirable and his story is inspiring to people of all ages. Teachers are important coaches for young people. Furthermore, they must believe their students will succeed at something.
Students must possess three things: belief, motivation and creativity. As a result, we must teach students to belief in themselves that they are unique with their own talents.
Uncommon Beauty in Writing 