Beloved Teacher’s Dream of Creating an Animated Film

Hi, I'm an elementary school teacher from Ewing, New Jersey (Parkway Elementary School). I've been blessed to have been 'Teacher of the Year' in three different schools, and I am entering my 26th year as an educator. I've been featured in the New York Times (Students Find Strength in a Pact of Their Own). I've taught percussion in after-school programs and volunteered to do drum circles and storytelling at Home Front, a shelter for homeless families. I produced a play written by two students that was performed in a local community theater (two sold-out performances). I put together an inspiring program for students to meet Eric LeGrand. The animated project is based on my second children's soon to be released called “Exceptional.” I have told my students never to fear challenges or be unique. Exceptional will be an animated film featuring the talents and original music of violinist Scott Tixier, harpist Brandee Younger, harmonica player Yvonnick Prene, and steel pannist Victor Provost. Though not the first, these musicians dare to use their instruments as the lead jazz instrument. Jazz is primarily led by guitar, brass, woodwinds, and percussion instruments (piano, drums). I want to bring this book to life in an animated film with the assistance of Split Technologies out of Texas. As I approach my last year of teaching, I want to enter the world of children's books and animation.