AUGUST 2022

Accomplished singer Joe Coleman is a man of many talents. In addition to his vocal abilities, he’s also a songwriter, playwright, and now a children’s book author. Coleman’s new book, DanSing Pancakes’ Healthy Choices Musical Story, and its companion singalong song are designed to encourage children to reject drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes in favor of a healthy lifestyle. Coleman, who spent 20 years thrilling crowds as the lead singer of the legendary group The Platters, says it’s a message that kids need to hear. “I’m committed to teaching kids that making healthy choices can be fun and empowering,” he says. “They need to know it’s cool to study hard, respect your family and friends, and eat healthily.”

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During my many years as a library teacher, I had the privilege of working with students from preschool age to fourth grade. Our teaching team was considered the “Special Area Teachers.” Music, physical education, art, and library classes were (and are) a slice of each student’s schedule. One of the most special “perks” of being a special area teacher was watching and being with the children from their earliest years until they graduated to middle school at the end of fourth grade! As the school year would wind down in May and June, I felt comfort telling my students, “I’ll see you next year!” This was a reassurance to many (and my own children in their school district) that the music, art, P.E., and library teachers will always be there to greet them as they become older, wiser, and more savvy school-aged kids.

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