Obama writes Manitoba school, praises students for book project

“Up top” photo from Obama’s official Facebook page.

BRANDON, Manitoba — A literacy program at a Manitoba school aimed at new immigrants has caught the attention of U.S. President Barack Obama.

The Ecole New Era School dual language book project in Brandon encourages immigrants to write stories in their own language and then in English.

Students then illustrate the stories.

So far nine books have been published and printed with another 11 more in progress.

Obama was made aware of the program after the Brandon School Division sent copies of books the students wrote to the White House.

The president sent the students a letter this week congratulating them.

“Please know I am touched by your warm gesture,” Obama wrote.

“Today we are in extraordinary times, with extraordinary opportunities, and more than ever the futures of countries and people are intertwined. Hearing from thoughtful, engaged students like you gives me great hope for a brighter tomorrow.”

Grade 8 student Eshita Lallawooa said she was surprised Obama would take the time to write.

“He is a really busy man,” she said. How would he find time for us, we are in a small city in a really small school.”