presentations
With over 15 years of experience as an educator, I offer engaging presentations at schools, libraries, and community events, for both young people and adults. Skilled at working with diverse communities and a range of language and literacy backgrounds, I work with the book to:
- Teach about the rich history of Oakland and the San Francisco Bay Area
- Connect readers with urban creeks and local watersheds
- Offer a culturally relevant teaching tool that honors indigenous voices and reflects diverse experiences
- Inspire people to engage in their communities and environments
- Develop understanding about the writing and publication process
“Melissa Reyes’ classroom visit was spectacular! The presence of a live author visiting our class was exciting. She taught my students unfamiliar words with images and explanations before introducing her book. My students were thinking, talking and making connections. They were captivated by Oakland’s history and the experience of the creek throughout the book. This story opened an unknown world to them. After the reading, Melissa answered questions and responded to students’ comments. We felt grateful to have experienced such a special event.”
“Melissa Reyes, read her beautiful book, I am Sausal Creek/ Soy El Arroyo Sausal, to the children in my after school program. The book shared Oakland’s history through the eyes of Sausal Creek. We learned about the Ohlone people, how Fruitvale got it’s name and how special Oak and Willlow trees are in Oakland. When asked why she wrote this book she said, ‘There were no children’s books about the history of Oakland,so I decided to create one.’ Our community is dope.”
“Melissa’s presentation was just perfect for our K/1 students. Her experience as a classroom teacher quickly became evident…It was amazing to be able to hand over my classroom to such a seasoned educator. She provided age appropriate background and historical information, employed effective management strategies and did a wonderful job of sharing her amazing book. We would love to have Melissa back again!”