WES Celebrates Reading Nonfiction with 10th Annual March Madness Book Battle
Williams Elementary School once again delivered an unforgettable March Madness Reveal Assembly as part of its 10th Annual March Madness Book Battle. This highly anticipated event is a favorite among students, staff, and the entire school community. Over the past few weeks, students have been exploring a carefully selected collection of nonfiction books, which served to inspire, encourage, and inform readers of all ages.
The celebration was made even more special by the return of several student-athletes from Messalonskee High School’s basketball team. Their participation added excitement and meaning to the event, especially for the younger students who look up to them. The assembly was led by the ever-enthusiastic Rippy McQueen (a.k.a. Mr. Dan MacTwist, one of the school’s dedicated reading and math Title I tutors), portraying the fun-loving, book-obsessed cousin of the well-known Skippy McQueen.
The event kicked off with an epic round of knockout basketball. Each classroom selected a student representative to participate, joining the high school athletes and any willing staff members. The final showdown came down to Drake Brunelle from the Messalonskee boys’ basketball team and fourth grader Aulden Dorsey, creating a thrilling moment for everyone in attendance.
This year’s final book contenders were Narwhal: Unicorn of the Arctic and Wat Takes His Shot. After much excitement and schoolwide anticipation, Wat Takes His Shot: The Life & Legacy of Basketball Hero Wataru Misaka by Cheryl Kim and illustrated by Nat Iwata emerged as the champion of the 10th Annual March Madness Book Battle.
Both finalist books were introduced in grand fashion. Miss Sides and her third graders embraced the theme of Narwhal: Unicorn of the Arctic, complete with flowing paper water waves, while Miss Hamilton and her fourth graders transformed into “Hamilton’s Hoopers,” proudly wearing homemade jerseys as Miss Hamilton sported a homemade basketball hoop. Each group made their entrance to theme music, accompanied by cheers from the crowd and an atmosphere charged with energy.
In the grand finale, the entire school counted down together before Mrs. Smith and Mr. Parisi unveiled a massive 6-foot by 9-foot poster of the winning book’s cover. The crowd erupted in celebration as the image of Wat Takes His Shot was revealed.
To make the moment even more special, Cheryl Kim, the author of the winning book, sent a heartfelt video message to the students and staff of Williams Elementary School. In her message, she expressed her gratitude and joy that her book had resonated so deeply with the school. She left the students with powerful words of encouragement, sharing a lesson from Wataru Misaka’s father: “Gambatte,” a Japanese phrase meaning “seize every opportunity.” She added, “Don’t give up. Take your shots. You’re going to face challenges, Williams Elementary School, and I encourage you to keep taking your shots.” #WeAreRSU18 #WESproud18
