Bourne Intermediate School Students Participate in One School, One Book Family Reading Program

BOURNE —Superintendent Kerri Anne Quinlan-Zhou and Principal Jane Norton are pleased to share that Bourne Intermediate School is participating in the One School, One Book, Family Reading Program.

During October, Bourne Intermediate students are participating in the national family literacy program, One School, One Book. Students were tasked with reading a book with their families at home, while celebrating and exploring the novel during the school day.  

Approximately 360 students are participating in the program and brought home a copy of Wishtree by Katherine Applegate, on Oct. 4 to begin reading with their families.  

Wishtree, is centered around Red, the neighborhood’s beloved oak tree and all the animal creatures and townspeople who love her. Red’s tale touches on important themes such as kindness, acceptance, bullying, racial diversity, resilience, and teamwork amid the realm of animals, environmentalism, and conservation. 

Bourne Intermediate students kicked off the program with a school-wide assembly, a video preview of Wishtree, and a skit starring one of the book’s main characters, Bongo the Crow, played by Bourne High School Theater student Aspen Langley.  

During the school day, students have actively participated in lively discussions about the book and will be engaging in creative activities including recording themselves talking about the book and creating their own wishes to hang on the Bourne Intermediate Schools own Wishtree, which is painted in the school lobby.  

The program was organized by Bourne Intermediate School Library Media Center Specialist Mary Weatherby. 

“This program is a wonderful way for students to engage with their peers and their families through reading,” said Superintendent Quinlan-Zhou. “Bourne Public Schools is dedicated to community engagement and creating a learning experience for all, and this interactive program allows for parents and families to get involved in a fun meaningful way.” 

“It was overwhelming and heartwarming to see such a positive response to Wishtree from the entire school community. Students, parents, teachers, and even our substitute teachers, have all been on board reading and celebrating the great themes of this book,” said Bourne Intermediate Library Media Center Speacilist Weatherby. “I’ve counted more than 100 student responses for each of our trivia questions so far, and I can’t wait to see what happens with the other events we have planned. Wishtree has definitely created a buzz at BIS!”  

For more information about the One School, One Book program click here. 

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