UKIAH, Calif. – The Mendocino County Office of Education, or MCOE, and Board of Education recently awarded $4,890 to 14 local schools for their annual Young Authors’ Fair, an event that encourages children to write and publish their own books, and then recognizes them for their accomplishments.

According to Kimberly Barden, manager of MCOE Educational Services and Student Events, “Schools that have sponsored Young Authors’ Fairs tell us this project enhances children's writing abilities and their appreciation of literature.”

This year’s grant recipients include: Arena Elementary, Brookside Elementary, Calpella Elementary, Dana Gray Elementary, Eel River Charter School, Frank Zeek Elementary, Laytonville Elementary and Middle School, Manchester Union Elementary, Potter Valley Elementary, Round Valley Elementary and Middle School, Willits Charter School, and Willits Elementary Charter School. Funding for each school is based on school size and the size and impact of the Youth Authors’ Fair event.

“We congratulate all the participating schools and can’t wait to read the students’ work,” Barden said.

For more information about the Youth Authors’ Fair program, contact Barden at 707-467-5100 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..