Brazilian author provides first-hand look at ocean life

Aplington-Parkersburg Middle and Elementary School students recently got a rare look at what happens deep in the ocean. Author and photographer Michael Patrick O’Neill, originally of Sao Palo, Brazil, visited the school earlier this month and brought with him pictures and stories from his career as an author, photographer and environmental activist who specializes in marine wildlife.

“He brought the ocean to us,” said Nancy Flanigan, media specialist at A-P schools. “Some of the kids said it felt like they were exploring with him.”

While the ocean is a new and exciting for environment for small-town Iowa kids, literacy coach Kim Koch said he emphasized the importance of following dreams and being aware of their own settings.

“He expressed to them that the world around them is an amazing place,” she said.

Aside from showing pictures and telling stories, he led writing workshops. Flanigan said this helped students see that anyone can write a story.

Read the full story in the November 29 edition.

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