Our third through fifth-grade students at Northern Elementary, in Somerset, Kentucky, have been immersed in a powerful book study of Carole Lindstrom’s Caldecott-winning book, We Are Water Protectors. During library classes, we explored the book’s central theme: that water is the most precious resource of our planet, and it is up to all of us to protect it.
This book study served as a bridge to understanding civic duties. That being a citizen is much more than just living in a specific place; it also means taking care of our shared resources that sustain life for everyone.
The book also introduces the concept of peaceful protests and advocacy in relation to the Dakota Access Pipeline. This served as a launching point for us to explore and discuss this environmental advocacy and the power of using our voices to stand up for Earth.
To bring the lesson home to Somerset, Kentucky, students brainstormed concrete ways they can protect our local water sources. Working in groups, they designed posters that focused on preventing water pollution and preserving our local environment
The most rewarding part of this book study has been seeing students have environmental consciousness outside the classroom. Several students have taken it upon themselves to pick up litter on the playground to ensure it doesn’t end up in our local streams. And I had one student return to the library, sharing a story of spotting pipelines in our community and asking questions about the pipeline’s purpose.
It is amazing how one book can spark such vital conversations and inspire real-world change. That is truly what it’s all about!
Trena Kerns
Northern Elementary School
Pulaski County Schools
K-5 (Activity with 3rd-5th)
