The Glenbard Parent Series, or GPS, is a program that was developed to become a wonderful resource for both parents and students alike to watch or attend free programs that help them thrive in ever-changing times. These programs present research based information, support positive youth development, and aim to help strengthen families with the help of experts.
Gilda Ross, the creator of the GPS program explained how ever since the GPS program was created about 30 years ago while Ross’s daughter was a student, it has expanded to cover topics like college, mental and physical health, education, and hosts many different languages. There is truly something for everyone.
GPS hosts many incredible authors, doctors, and other speakers to cover topics that are important to address, especially for teenagers in their formative years. On September 18th, the Glenbard Parent Series (GPS) hosted author and musician Michelle Zauner to talk about her 2021 memoir, Crying in H-Mart. Zauner, known for her work in the indie pop band Japanese Breakfast, has recently expanded to become an author. Crying in H-Mart is a heartfelt memoir written about Zauner’s mothers battle with pancreatic cancer and how it affected her before and after her passing.
Every year, a book is chosen to be represented in the program, and this year, Crying in H-Mart was chosen. Ross herself is a fan of the book, noting that she “thought it was a wonderful book” and that it is “a great choice for the community read” Crying in H-Mart has been widely acclaimed, spending 60 weeks on the New York Times hardcover nonfiction bestseller list – in 2022, Time named Zauner one of the 100 most influential people in the world under the Innovators category on their annual list.
During the interview, Ms. Zauner discussed her future plans for a film adaptation of “Crying In H-Mart”, answered questions about grief and the management of her emotions during that difficult time, and gave insight about her experience with identity as a Korean-American woman.
Students from each Glenbard school were chosen to participate in the interview, and each student was able to ask Ms. Zauner a purposeful question. This is just one example, however, of the many interviews that GPS hosts. GPS can be used as a resource for grief, addiction, college information, socialization skills, and motivation, meaning there really is something for everyone. There are many more speakers coming up soon, so tune in! For more information on GPS, head to gpsparentseries.org.
