Washington, Newman, and Indian Hills win annual elementary battle of the books

The recent SLCSD Board Meeting highlighted the annual "Battle of the Books," a competitive reading event for elementary students that fosters a love for literature among young readers. This year, students from grades 3 to 6 engaged in a rigorous reading program, tackling 20 selected titles deemed the year's best.

The competition culminated in a spirited contest where teams from various schools vied for the title of district champions. Washington Elementary School, led by librarian Liz Gleeson, emerged victorious with team members Ella Leonard, Dylan Song, Greer Alder, and Arthur Garnet, alongside alternate Seth Rook. Newman Elementary, under the guidance of librarian Krista Anderson, secured second place with Keeley Brown, Olivia Jo Sturtzenigger, Robert Wood, Arlene Wufdinden, Alex Panaharia, and alternate Christopher Stock. Indian Hills, with librarian Dana Savage, rounded out the top three, featuring team members Ian Chow, Claire Kim, Hannah Isaacson, Esther Webb, and alternate Otto Lee Alt.

The event's success is attributed to the collaborative efforts of elementary librarians who organize competitions at their schools, often outside regular hours. They work together to create a comprehensive set of questions, ensuring a fair and engaging experience for all participants. Emily De Jong, librarian at Beacon Heights, plays a pivotal role in coordinating the event, while Jason Finch, principal at Mountain View, contributed by reading the questions during the competition.

As part of the celebration, bookmarks featuring next year's competition books were distributed, encouraging continued reading among students. The enthusiasm displayed by the participants underscores the importance of fostering a reading culture in schools, as students not only compete but also connect with peers who share their passion for books. This annual event not only recognizes young readers but also highlights the dedication of educators in promoting literacy within the community.