In today’s world of standardized tests and heightened academic standards, we sometimes neglect the heart and soul of learning – engaging the interests and passions of our students..

With a fervor acquired in fourth grade, my wife urged me to read Charlotte’s Web. Annette loved the timeless tale of Fern, the farm girl who sought to save the runt of a pig litter, and Charlotte, the barn spider who engineered the rescue.

It was a summer day. I remember that day well. I must have been about 12-years-old.