Walking with Purpose

This fall, seventh-grade students read “A Long Walk to Water” by Linda Sue Park, based on the inspiring true story of Salva Dut, a former Lost Boy of Sudan and founder of Water for South Sudan, Inc. Throughout this unit, students learned about the water scarcity issue in Sudan and explored themes of perseverance, hope and the global importance of clean water. 

On Nov. 6, all of the seventh graders participated in a water walk which helped them form tangible connections to the book but also to the daily struggles of those who must walk miles every day for water access.  During this experience, every student carried one gallon of water while walking one mile.  

The seventh graders are now collecting donations to support Salva Dut's organization, Water for South Sudan, and its dedication to providing clean water to those affected by water scarcity.  Their goal is to collect $844.80, which equals a “mile of pennies.” 

If you would like to help them reach their goal, please donate using the following link:  https://secure.givelively.org/teams/water-for-south-sudan-inc/iron-giraffe-challenge-2026/holland-patent-middle-school