9:00–9:30 AM: Arrival & Welcome
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Welcome by Ann and student ambassadors
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Light refreshments
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If using library, quick AV check (projector, mic, document camera for cartooning)
9:30–10:30 AM: Presentation #1 (Grades 3–5)
Location: Library (sitting on carpet)
Focus: “Becoming an Author: Rejection, Resilience, and Really Funny Stories”
Includes:
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Matt’s journey to NYT Bestseller
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Age-appropriate stories that didn’t make it into his books
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Short reading
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10-minute Q&A with younger students
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Mini cartoon demo (draw-along optional)
10:30–10:40 AM: Transition
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Students can take group photos
10:40–11:10 AM: Small-Group Cartooning Workshop (Grade 4 and 5)
Location: Lower School Classroom, Library
Format: 30-minute hands-on draw-along
Goal: Give 20–25 students a more intimate experience
Materials: Paper, pencils, clipboards
11:15 AM–12:10 PM: Lunch with Students or Faculty
12:10 -1:10 PM: Presentation #2 (Grades 6)
Location: Library
Focus: “Finding Your Voice: Humor, Heart, and Writing What You Know”
Includes:
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Matt’s writing process
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Stories behind his books
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Drafting vs. revising
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Rejection letters and resilience
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Reading from Matt’s latest book
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Student Q&A
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Optional 10-minute cartooning burst
1:30–2:00 PM: Independent Writing Mini-Workshop (Grade 7 and/or 8 ELA Class)
Location: English Classroom, Library
Focus:
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How to turn real life into narrative
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Humor as a writing craft tool
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Story beats & pacing
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Quick interactive writing prompt
2:10–3:10 PM: Presentation #3 (Grades 7–8)
Location: Library
Focus: “From Rejection to Resilience: How Writing Changed My Life”
Includes:
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Extended author journey
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Author failures (and what they teach)
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Real-life stories that inspired characters/scenes
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Excerpts from his books
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Strategies for writing with authenticity
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15-minute Q&A for older students
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Includes cartooning option as warm-up or closer
