Minnehaha students learn through residency

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Rachel Nelson is a jack of all trades when it comes to the arts. She’s a songwriter, a musician, a storyteller, a poet, a performer and an educator. The Two Harbors resident is poised to begin her fourth session as an artist in residence at the Minnehaha Elementary School in Two Harbors, facilitating literacy through storytelling.

Nelson uses her craft to get third graders excited about writing their own stories. The residency starts with Nelson’s story, which the students then recreate through drawing and acting.

“We’re trying at first to invite their imaginations into play,” Nelson explained.

After the students become familiar with the themes and process of creating a story, they have the opportunity to write something of their own.

“Third grade is the ideal age to catch them when they’re still emerging writers,” Nelson said.

Nelson also collaborates with others to ensure that students have the support they need throughout the project. The teachers are involved, giving her suggestions to help the curriculum evolve and community volunteers are engaged as writing mentors. Linda Melcher offers training to volunteers before they embark on the 13-week story writing adventure.

“It’s a wonderful job for anyone who has an interest in teaching or writing,” Nelson said.

The mentors work with the students in small groups to help them put pen to paper and to revise their stories. Nelson said the kids always love the small-group time with their mentors.

“They’re so enchanted that an adult is taking an hour out of their week to help them out,” she said.

Mentors are needed Wednesdays from 1-2:30 p.m. starting Jan. 30. Anyone interested in mentoring can e-mail Melcher at artsonsuperior@gmail.com or call her at 651-208-4991.

Tags: two harbors, news