Grants in Action: A Backpack Full of Possibility

Strengthening Literacy One Story at a Time

A second grader beamed as he packed his book bag, already knowing which story he would read to his mom that night.

Thanks to support from the North Kitsap Schools Foundation, that moment is happening again and again at Suquamish Elementary. Through the Book Bag Program, 52 first and second-graders were able to take three high-quality books home each week, bringing stories beyond classroom walls and into living rooms, kitchens, and bedtime routines.

For many students, especially those working hard to build reading skills, access to engaging books at home makes all the difference. Students didn’t just take books home; they shared them. Families read together. Students read aloud to parents and siblings. Characters became favorites. Stories sparked conversations. Reading became something joyful and shared.

A Story That Says It All

One bilingual second grader had struggled with reading since kindergarten. When he received his book bag, he carefully tucked it into his backpack. The next week, he returned with a huge grin.

He needed another “Biscuit” book.

His mom and little brother had loved the one he brought home, and now reading “Biscuit” had become something they did together. Each week, he chooses another Biscuit story to read aloud to his family. Today, he is achieving grade-level standards in decoding and fluency—proof that confidence, practice, and encouragement can change a trajectory.

More Than Books

This program isn’t just about sending books home. It’s about building confidence. It’s about creating routines. It’s about helping students see themselves as readers.

When children fall in love with a story, they show up differently. They participate more. They believe in their ability to grow. Programs like this build the foundation not just for academic success, but for lifelong learning.

The Book Bag Program was shared with families through letters home, reading night conversations, and visible reminders on each bag and book. With hopes of further expanding the program, the impact of this grant will continue for years to come.

This is Grants in Action: turning backpacks into bridges between school and home, and helping young readers discover that they can do hard things, one book at a time.