DUBOIS – Author John Schlimm recently visited the DuBois Central Catholic High School “Christ in Art” class that read and studied his memoir “Five Years in Heaven” as one of their final lessons.
“This class project is every writer’s dream,” Schlimm said. “To see something you created rippling out into the world in waves of inspiration and entertainment, especially like this with young people, is such a blessing.”
DCC Art Teacher Caitie Weyandt-Smith decided to use “Five Years in Heaven” in her curriculum after hearing Schlimm’s speech at the 2016 ECCOTA Gala when he accepted the “Lifetime Achievement Award” on behalf of Sister Augustine.
Earlier this year, students at Ridgway Area High School, under the direction of teacher Rich Skellen, also studied “Five Years in Heaven” and Sister Augustine’s artwork to create more than 150 abstract ceramic bowls for the “Gussie Tribute Collection” event at ECCOTA. The collection sold out in one night.
“Caitie and Rich are the best of the best when it comes to arts education,” Schlimm said. “They represent the kind of enthusiastic, dedicated, and innovative educators every student deserves!”
“Five Years in Heaven” was recently honored in New York City with a 2016 Christopher Award.  In May, a new paperback edition was released, which includes a chapter-by-chapter book club reading guide.