Young Writers Find Their Voice at ERS

The excitement of holding a published book in hand is something most people never experience. For seven Gr. 2 and 3 Elizabeth Rummel School (ERS) students, that moment is coming soon! Before the end of June, students will see their stories printed in a national anthology, entitled “Space Shark,” after being selected for publication in the Polar Expressions Publishing contest. For their teacher, Allyson Billings, this project has been a passion for more than a decade; an annual, year-long exercise that has inspired reluctant writers and given students a sense of pride that lasts far beyond the classroom.

Billings first discovered the contest when her own daughter brought home an entry form. Watching her child find excitement in storytelling left a lasting impression. The following year, Billings introduced it to her students and has continued the tradition ever since. After teaching around the globe, she has brought the contest to ERS where 14 students chose to participate this year. Seven of them, three in G. 2 and four in Gr. 3, received the news shortly after the February break that their work will be published.

From the start of the school year, the students knew this was coming. As a catalyst, Billings keeps past editions of the anthology in her classroom and introduces the project by flipping through their pages, pointing out the names of former students who have been published. Creating excitement by detailing the journey her students will follow, the national scale of the contest, and even the prize money available, Billings said “it’s often the moment when they realize they too could see their name in a book that cements their interest.”

Billings explained that building confidence in young writers takes time. The class begins in the fall with picture books, analyzing how stories are structured with characters, settings, and problems to solve. During their first guided attempt, students are taught to let their characters struggle before reaching a solution, ensuring an engaging story arc. They brainstorm with partners, draft their ideas, and go through the challenge of revising their work. By November, students are challenged to create a solo entry with no support from their teacher, other than cheers from the sidelines. Before the winter break, student entries are submitted, and the real waiting begins.

The day the results arrive is always a mix of excitement and nerves. “Some students leap from their seats in celebration, others race home to check the mail for the official letter,” said Billings. “Those who were not selected are encouraged to try again next year, with the reminder that the contest runs all the way through Gr. 12.” 

The most rewarding part of the journey is seeing reluctant writers transform, Billings reflected. Two boys in this year’s group, who once struggled with writing, now see themselves as authors. The experience of completing something independently, from start to finish, gives them confidence that extends far beyond this contest.

Ultimately, for all those who participate, their stories are more than just words on a page. They represent perseverance, creativity, and the courage to share ideas. For young students, the experience of seeing their work in print is a powerful reminder that their voices matter. Whether or not they were selected for publication this time, each student has gained the confidence to take risks, the patience to refine their ideas, and the excitement of knowing their words have the power to connect with others.