Books with a Broadcaster is a community literacy initiative developed by 90.7 WPSR that connects students of all ages through the joy of reading. The program invites elementary students to become guest readers on WPSR while giving high school broadcasters opportunities to serve as literacy ambassadors in local schools.

The program has two complementary components:

1. Kids Korner Guest Readers

Elementary students are invited to the WPSR studio to record themselves reading age-appropriate children's books. These recordings become part of the weekly Kids Korner programming.

Students experience a real radio station, practice reading aloud, build confidence, and hear themselves on the air. Families, classmates, and teachers can tune in to celebrate their accomplishments.

Goals

• Encourage reading fluency and confidence.
• Introduce students to broadcasting and media.
• Celebrate young readers in the community.
• Create engaging local programming for WPSR.

Typical Visit

• Welcome and station tour (10–15 minutes)
• Introduction to microphones and broadcasting
• Record one or two children's books
• Take photos (with school/parent permission)
• Receive a "WPSR Guest Broadcaster" certificate

2. Broadcasters in the Classroom

WPSR's high school on-air personalities visit elementary schools to read children's books to classrooms (Kindergarten and first grade) 

Each visit includes:

• Interactive story time
• Discussion about reading
• Introduction to broadcasting and media 
• Question-and-answer session
• Invitation for classes to visit the WPSR studio

These visits help student broadcasters build public speaking, leadership, and community service skills while inspiring younger students to become enthusiastic readers.

WPSR Goals

• Original locally produced programming
• Stronger community relationships
• Positive public image
• Increased student involvement
• Expanded audience engagement

Additional WPSR Programming Opportunities

The program could feature:

• Reader of the Week
• Classroom of the Month
• Author Spotlights
• Seasonal story specials
• Holiday readings
• Library partnership episodes
• Summer Reading Series

Participating students could receive:

• WPSR Guest Broadcaster Certificate
• Photo in the station or school newsletter
• Recognition on WPSR's website and social media (with appropriate permissions)
• Commemorative bookmark or station sticker

If you are interested in any of these opportunities for your students, please email jobeth.bootz@evsck12.com

Long-Term Vision

Books with a Broadcaster can become one of WPSR's signature outreach programs, strengthening literacy throughout the community while showcasing student voices. Over time, the initiative could expand to include library story hours, author interviews, book drives, live reading events, summer reading challenges, and annual literacy celebrations.

By bringing together elementary students, high school broadcasters, educators, and families, WPSR can create meaningful connections that encourage a lifelong love of reading while demonstrating the power of local radio to educate, inspire, and serve the community.