Saint Peter Public Schools

(ABOVE) Ryan Jacobson, a well-known Minnesota author who has written more than 60 books for both adults and children, was the keynote speaker at this year's Young Writers & Artists Conference at Bethany Lutheran College on March 8. About 30 students from North Elementary attended the event. Thanks to Mr. Robinson for the photo!

A group of about 30 third and fourth grade students from North Elementary attended the Young Writers & Artists Conference (YWAC) at Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato on Wednesday, March 8.

“It was a great opportunity for students to explore a wide variety of subjects related to writing and creative arts,” North Elementary teacher Scott Robinson, who accompanied the group, said. “Students had the opportunity to attend a variety of sessions presented by local authors and other artists.”

This year’s keynote presentation was by Ryan Jacobson, who is credited with having written more than 50 books for adults and children alike. The conference also included a book fair where students could also purchase books as well. 

“The event was well received and students had a great time,” Robinson said. 

Session topics may include, but not be limited to: poetry, fiction writing, character and plot development, illustration/cartooning, theater art, music, graphic design, journalism, science fiction, humor, screen plays, calligraphy, etc.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund and additional support from The Prairie Ecology Bus Center.