The students at all three elementary schools in the Islip School District – Commack Road, Maud S. Sherwood, and Wing – received a special treat, as children’s author and illustrator Chris Soentpiet visited them to discuss the process an author goes through when creating a story. During his visit, which was coordinated by the PTA Council, Mr. Soentpiet spoke to the students about his experiences as a published author and illustrator, including his use of models and photography to bring his illustrations to life. Following his schoolwide presentations, Mr. Soentpiet set up shop in the art rooms to discuss drawing techniques with small groups of students.