The benefits of reading are widely known and more relevant than ever. Books encourage young readers to question, analyze, and form their own opinions. By immersing themselves in stories, young people can explore places and experiences far beyond their own reality, igniting their imagination and fostering empathy. Studies show that when kids and teens see adults reading and talking about books, they are more likely to become engaged readers.

That’s why WPS has created a fun way to promote literacy and highlight the importance of reading for all students. Bookmarks is an opportunity for members of the WPS community to share the impact their favorite books had on them. 

Visit Bookmarks to tell us about a book you love or one that you think young readers would enjoy. You can even record a video!

THE WATER IS WIDE by Pat Conroy is our first submission and comes from Kayla Cupp at Tennyson Knolls Preparatory School.

The moving memoir is based on Conroy’s experience as a teacher in a two-room schoolhouse on a small island off of South Carolina. It tells of Conroy’s growth as a teacher and human being and the impact he had on a group of children who learned about a world beyond their island. 

Cupp wrote:

This book has stayed with me for years. I read it when I first started my journey to become a teacher. What resonated with me was his passion for equity, his creativity in the classroom, and his unwavering belief that every child deserves a chance to learn.

Conroy’s journey is both inspiring and heartbreaking—but above all, it’s a reminder of the power of one person to make a difference through education and compassion. It’s a book that reminds me why literacy, and what we do each day in all areas of WPS, matter. 

THE WATER IS WIDE was made into the film CONRACK starring Jon Voight. Watch trailer for CONRACK.