Will Barnstable School District Get on Duke's Train?

On Tuesday night the Barnstable School Committe honored English teacher and author Mick Carlon for success with his book Riding on Duke's Train that will be incorporated into school curriculum across the country next winter.

So far the Oakland, California school system has adopted his book into their sixth grade curriculum while other districts from Boston, New Orleans, Connecticut and New York have made inquiries about incorporating it into curriculum.

Barnstable is also considering including Carlon’s book into their sixth grade curriculum. However, the book must first pass through a review process before it can be implemented into the school system.

If the book makes its way into Barnstable, Carlon said he will donate the royalties from the Barnstable sales to the American Cancer Society in honor of his mother-in-law Susan Milk, who was a Centerville Elementary School teacher and passed away from cancer two years ago this May.

Carlon's teaching style is something of a legend in the Barnstable School District. 

“He’s the poster child of effective effort at BIS,” said superintendent Patricia Grenier.

Riding on Duke’s Train uniquely mixes important multicultural issues with one of Carlon’s passions-jazz music. The book may also be used in conjunction with the BIS music department.

“I suspect BIS will rock through that book,” said an elated Grenier.

According to Carlon, he is excited about how it will be used in schools. Carlon has been an educator for nearly three decades and is a strong believer in infusing music into the classroom.

Books will be available for purchase by January 12.

“To me it’s a dream come true and just shows what perseverance and persistence can do,” said Carlon.