Mrs. Andrews donated over 100 copies of her book, "Tag-A-Long" to all of our first graders last year. She volunteered her time and made a point to visit all of our first grade classrooms, to let children know what it is like to be a writer and why it is so important to do a good job in school. She inspired children to know that they can be writers too. As a result our first grade classes, paired up to have pen pals to write about the experience. Mrs. Andrews is full of energy and shared her love of reading and enthusiasm with our First Graders! We are very appreciative of her generosity and look forward to having her visit new First Graders in the future! Amanda Cavaness, Literacy Coach, Community Elementary School, Coffeyville, KS
"Mrs. Andrews provided a real treat to our students. Her presentation was so meaningful because she had the students bring their own "tag-a-long" and encouraged them to share their stories as well." Mrs. O'Brien, Kindergarten Teacher, Zion Lutheran School, Independence, Kansas
"The opportunity to meet a "real" author who lovingly tells her story and encourages children is a wonderful experience." Mrs. Oldenettel, Principal, Zion Lutheran School, Independence, Kansas
"My students love the interactive feature of Mrs. Andrew's book. They were excited to be able to create their story in a "real" book. Thank you for providing books for our students!" Mrs. Seel, First and Second Grade Teacher, Zion Lutheran School, Independence, Kansas
Tag-a-Long has been a very predominant part of my language arts program for my class. This story helped my students with their reading comprehension skills. The children make a connection to the text and relate that text to themselves. They understand tag-a-longs because each student has a tag-a-long. It may be a little stuffed animal, a blanket or a favorite sweater they wear all the time.
This story helps my students understand and interpret literary text by knowing the story elements such as the main idea, characters and supporting details. I use the story to help my students with creative writing as well as letter writing skills.
Mrs. Andrews has written a gem of a story for it has allowed my students to have their language arts experience enriched beyond the school districts curriculum goals for first graders. Tag-a-Long has added what I refer to as "moments of sparkle" in my students learning.
Candi Borah, First Grade Teacher, Gunnison Elementary School, Gunnision, Colorado
"The gift of a quilt is a gift of love and comfort that one never outgrows. How well Ms. Andrews has captured this feeling in her Tag-a-Long book. Children need this sense of love in order to become comforting adults."
Beverly Goode
Independence, Kansas
Wilma Andrews is a retired teacher residing in Independence, Kansas with her husband Sydney. She mentors at Washington School, volunteers at church, VFW 1186 Ladies Auxiliary, Independence Historical Museum and enjoys playing golf.