Knightly News

Author Gayle Webre with Lower School students.

This year’s Reading Days for Reading Knights week was a comprehensive celebration of reading, with author visits, Lower School special dress days and the Cavalier House book fair. “I love that we are able to make our Reading Days for Reading Knights Book Fair a major event through the support of Parents' Guild,” says Library Director Tiffany Whitehead.

Five Authors in Four Days

Having one author spend time with students is a tremendous learning experience; incredibly, Episcopal students had the opportunity to interact with five. “Bringing in authors to share and connect face-to-face with our students is quite meaningful for our readers and writers,” says Whitehead. “Giving our students the opportunity to ask questions and learn about the experiences of these published authors adds a whole new depth to their interactions with books and the possibilities their own futures can hold.”

Lower School Librarian Sara Gomez is always excited about author visits. “Students get the chance to interact with someone that a lot of us think is unreachable,” she says. “It lets kids see this is a real job, and you can pursue this.” Gomez points out that author discussions often spark conversations about writing and the importance of developing that skill.

Author Terrance Sanders-Smith with Lower School students.

Author Alexis Braud with Lower School students.

Library Opportunities Abound

The Episcopal librarians and faculty prioritize reading and writing with numerous literacy focused activities throughout the year. For example, through the Drop Everything and Read initiative, students intentionally read a book of their choice for 20 minutes once a week. In addition, the annual Middle School Battle of the Books is a longstanding competition to encourage pre-teens to pick up a book. In Lower School, students have the opportunity to read a story with their furry friends from the Louisiana Capital City Obedience Club. Episcopal libraries are a hub of activity, including research, the Academic Resource Center and much more. Having these tremendous resources is a real benefit to students as they pursue academic excellence. 

Thank you to the following authors!

Terrance Sanders-Smith
Alexis Braud
Marti Dumas
Jumata Emill
Gayle Webre

Author Jumata Emill with Upper School students.

Author Marti Dumas with Middle School students.

The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2024-2025 application is now available! ​For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at [email protected] or 225-755-2685.