Although I normally visit many different schools throughout the year, I have never visited with more than one school at a time. Yesterday was different.  Through the magic of the Internet, I was able to visit with six different schools -- as far apart as Texas and Michigan -- all simulatneously.

I have started visiting schools "virtually" through 21st Century Learning, a company that provides  high-quality  educational programs for public, private, and homeschooled students.  Their Passport programs use videoconferencing presentation software  to offer  live, interactive presentations with authors, storytellers, and subject-matter experts.

This is a wonderful opportunity for kids that might otherwise never get to talk to an author.  And it gives me a chance and to share the fun of poetry and get them excited about reading and writing.

Educators, school administrators, and homeschool parents who would like to give their students this opportunity should contact 21st Century Learning for more details.  The only technology you will need to bring an author to your school is a broadband Internet connection, a web browser, and a willingness to have fun.