Students at Elm Creek School had a special visit from professional hockey player, Corinne Schroeder on Feb. 2 to kick off I Love to Read Month.
Schroeder, who grew up in Elm Creek and attended Elm Creek School, was invited by the Grade 6 class to talk about her hockey career as part of a writing assignment for, “What do I want to be when I grow up?” Students explored a variety of careers, with several community and family members invited to share their experiences. One student wrote they hoped to become a professional hockey player.
Now playing for the Seattle Torrents in the Professional Women’s Hockey League, Schroeder was invited to chat virtually with the class, but they were all in for a surprise.
“Amazingly she had a few days off and was coming home,” said Grade 6 teacher, Nicky Spencer. “The look on [my students faces] faces was priceless— Corinne is an absolute celebrity here.”
Schroeder spent time answering students’ many questions about her journey from a small-town rink to the professional stage.
She also read to the whole school the book, I Am Big, by Itah Sadu, which tells the story of a young Black hockey player discovering confidence and joy in the sport.
Spencer added the visit made a lasting impression.
“Corinne is not only a hometown hero,” she said. “She is an example of how a strong work ethic, dedication and a great attitude pave the way to success.”
