Teachers in Polk County are getting fired up for the new school year and they’re doing it with the help of a best-selling author whose book inspired a movie.

Erin Gruwell, who is a teacher and the author of "Freedom Writers," shared her story with educators. It was a part of the district’s Summer Literacy Institute.

Gruwell said she was hoping to inspire teachers so they can help their students and the teachers say that message was received.

“Today was amazing," teacher Sharlene Pierce said. "It validated everything that we do as teachers connections with kids."

The faces of most of the teachers in the room were covered in tears as they watched a documentary on the Freedom Writers and listened to Gruwell speak.

“The idea was taking inner city kids who had never written a paper, let alone an essay to put down a fist, put down a gun and actually rewrite their stories,” Gruwell said.

It’s a message that spoke volumes to teachers at the event.

“It says that their stories are valuable, that they’re important and that they’re worth something,” Pierce said.

Courtney Brinton said she’s been a fan of the movie and the book for years. She never imagined she’d come face to face with the woman who inspired it all, let alone learn lessons from her.

“I read the book with my students and it was impactful for them as well so just for it to finally happen for her to be here in Polk County is a dream,” Brinton said.

Polk County School’s literacy director Jacqueline Bowen says that’s exactly how she felt when she heard Gruwell speak last year, and it’s something she wanted to share with the rest of the teachers in the district before the new school year starts.

“I just needed our teachers to start this school year on fire, and I think she brought that for us today,” Bowen said.

Judging by the applause and the positive reaction, the teachers are already on the right track.

Teachers who attended today’s Summer Literacy Institute were given a copy of the book "Freedom Writers." Gruwell also met with top administrators to discuss ways to improve the school district.