Tasneem Halloum, a seventh-grade science teacher at Arizona Virtual Academy (AZVA), has authored a children’s book titled “A Kids Book About Courage.” Published in November 2023, the book is the latest in the acclaimed book series “A Kids Book About,” which explains complex topics — racism, empathy, equality, anxiety and more — for children ages 5 and up. Halloum joins other authors in the series, including tennis great Billie Jean King, actor LeVar Burton and former NFL coach Daron K. Roberts.

“Over the years, I’ve taught children with varied backgrounds and abilities, and I’ve seen the life challenges they face,” Halloum said. “Many students who have made the switch to AZVA include those in military families that make frequent moves, those who have health issues that don’t allow for in-class attendance, and those who are refugees. Sadly, some transfer to AZVA because they’ve been bullied. The courage AZVA students and all the students I have worked with over the years express daily is what inspired this book.”

“A Kids Book About Courage” describes courage and its different forms and shares how all children have courage within themselves. While courage can be internal or external, big or small, children can learn to recognize it and be proud of it.

Halloum’s book is part of a children’s book series that explains the big issues young people face and how they can deal with them. The book is meant to be read by children with their parents and to foster conversations about important topics. As such, Halloum considers “A Kids Book About Courage” to be a good pick for children and parents in March, which has been designated as National Reading Month, a month to get parents and kids motivated about reading.

“We fully support our teachers like Tasneem by encouraging them to pursue their passions — in this case, writing a book — and share them with others to foster confidence and growth,” said AZVA Executive Director Charles Woods Jr.

Halloum has been with AZVA for seven years and has taught abroad and in brick-and-mortar schools. More information on her book can be found here. It is available on Amazon.

About the Author
Tasneem Halloum is a devoted mother and dedicated educator who has a passion for inspiring young minds. In working with children from all over the world, Tasneem continues her mission to educate and empower the leaders of tomorrow and guide them to embrace the limitless opportunities of the future.

About Arizona Virtual Academy
Based in Phoenix, Arizona Virtual Academy (AZVA) is a full-time, online K-12 public school. It is one of the largest virtual schools in the nation, with more than 5,000 students. AZVA is the only state-approved, online virtual school with a CRE/CTE program that trains students in career pathways ranging from cybersecurity and veterinary medicine to drone technology and engineering. Some students who graduate from the school can obtain high-paying jobs with $50,000 salaries. The school’s curriculum is developed by K12, Inc., an education leader with more than 20 years of experience delivering online education to students nationwide.