During March is Reading Month 2026, Wylie fourth grade teacher Jessica Elkin’s students thought not only about their personal reading goals, but also about helping others achieve theirs. They decided to become advocates for Metro Detroit-based nonprofit Making Spirits Bright. Making Spirits Bright is dedicated to promoting and providing access to books that brighten the lives of youth, while enhancing literacy and the love of learning. They distribute thousands of like-new books directly to children and families, often through free book fairs.
Ryan S. created this publicity flyer to include in Making Waves.
After a brainstorming session, Elkin’s students decided on the goal of collecting 5,000 books for the nonprofit. With that objective in mind, they created a list of achievable goals and got to work! The students made informational slideshows for other classes, created posters, wrote and delivered school announcements, and performed skits. They practiced their advocacy skills by writing emails to teachers at Wylie and the DEEC, informing them of the drive and asking to present to their classes. Small groups of fourth graders presented to approximately a dozen classrooms.
One group contacted DHS teacher and Strength & Conditioning coach Chris Whittaker, who interviewed them on his Iron Dread Podcast in an exciting cross-building collaboration:
Here is a short excerpt from the podcast:
Coach Whitt: Why do you think it’s important for people to donate books?
Student: Because less fortunate people might not have books, and books are a huge part of learning, and they can teach you a lot.
In addition to all the advertising for book donations, the students are also in charge of collecting the books from other classes, boxing, storing, and adding up total amounts. At press time, the class has collected approximately 3,400 books toward their 5000 book goal.
“They have really poured their hearts into this project,” says Elkin.
The book collection drive has been extended into April. Any gently used children or adult books can be dropped off at the Wylie office and the students will process them for donation. Books in any condition can be donated; if a book is considered to be outdated or in poor condition, the organization partners with a company that recycles those into paper towels or kitty litter.
