Message from the Dragon

Especially for Teachers

You may have noticed in most issues of Magic Dragon instructions
on how an art project was created or poems or stories were written. Often when teachers send in submissions from their classes, they will include some of these directions. In this issue, for example, we have two poems from students in an Arizona class who wrote about why they don’t use drugs. (“Be Cool” and “I Know Drugs.”) The Snowmen
in the center spread were made with “etched” foam board and then printed on colored paper. We explain how to make Aztek Sun Designs. And we have printed four poems from a fifth grade class in Florida called “I Am From” or “De donde yo soy.” These poems were inspired by George Ella Lyon’s poem of the same name. Students followed the format and wrote their own personal versions.

Many teachers have told us how much they appreciate these instructions. They use the ideas in their own classrooms and usually get good results. Sometimes, however, teachers have asked us to
put them in touch with one of the people who provided the directions so they could ask questions or clarify a step. We think it might be useful to set up a way for you all to communicate about writing and art that appears in Magic Dragon. If you like this idea, please send
us an e-mail note and let us know your thoughts on the best way to make it happen.

And if you believe that Magic Dragon makes a contribution to your
life and provides inspiration for you and your students, please
consider buying a subscription or asking your school librarian to
buy a subscription. All of our support comes from subscriptions and donations. All donations are tax deductible; the Association for Encouragement of Children’s Creativity is a 501(c)(3) organization.
A beautiful magazine that showcases children’s writing and art is unique. Help us continue to present these special young writers and artists.

Patricia Roesch
Editor