“Freedom Writers” teacher to visit Humboldt Junior High School

“Freedom Writers” teacher to visit Humboldt Junior High School
3/12/2008 4:28 PM

Media Advisory

Office of Community Relations
Contact: Howie Padilla, Office: (651) 767-8104

March 12, 2008

Saint Paul, Minn – Erin Gruwell, the teacher whose life was the basis for the Hollywood movie Freedom Writers, will spread her message of hope and change to students at Humboldt Junior High School Thursday, March 13, 2008.

What: Erin Gruwell shares her inspirational message with students and staff members.
When: Presentation begins at 9:30 a.m., Thursday, March 13, 2008.
Where: Humboldt Junior High School
      640 Humboldt Avenue
      Saint Paul, MN 55107

Gruwell, who is in the area to also speak at a Thursday evening event, will talk with Humboldt Junior High School students and staff members about the importance of education and becoming a catalyst for change. She was a high school English teacher who worked with at-risk students who would go on to become storytellers, published writers and college students. As part of Gruwell’s presentation, one of her former students also will speak.

Gruwell’s inspirational story garnered international attention when Oscar-award-winning actress Hilary Swank starred in Freedom Writers, a Paramount Pictures movie. Gruwell now serves as president of the Freedom Writers Foundation, a non-profit organization that works to decrease high school drop out rates. Her visit is sponsored by Young President’s Organization Twin Cities, whose core mission is to develop better leaders through education and idea exchange.

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NOTE TO EDITORS: Erin Gruwell will be available for interviews after her presentation at Humboldt Junior High School. She is scheduled to be at the school until 11:30 a.m.