WY English teacher Jay Rehak is passionate about writing and its importance in promoting empathy.  In April 2016, Rehak gave a Ted X Talk  at Northwestern University on the value of collaborative writing in the classroom.  The co-author of 12 “class-sourced books,” Rehak explains how he collaborates with his students to create single storylines. Most importantly, the teacher focuses on the power of collective storytelling as a vehicle for promoting empathy in the classroom.  At times awkward yet clearly heartfelt, Rehak’s  Ted X Talk leaves viewers well aware of the speaker’s appreciation of his students’ willingness to “open up” as writers.