Barnard Mandarin Magnet Elementary School’s annual Literacy Night, held on October 20, was a scary success. A crowd of nearly 200 students, siblings, parents, and volunteers attended this award-winning, annual event, which aims to show children how reading and writing can be fun. Just in time for Halloween, this year’s theme, “Night of the Ghost Writers,” brought out each student’s best writing in creative and spooky ways.
Attendees visited 18 stations throughout the night, each of which challenged kids with a different type of literacy or writing activity. Students were encouraged to write their own recipes for pumpkin pie, love potions, and “synonym rolls.” The CSI station had students investigating a crime scene involving an unfortunate pumpkin’s untimely demise. Still another station had students creating words in a wack-a-mole configuration of pumpkin letter pairs and word families. There was something for everyone, from kindergarten through 5th grade – except for the faint of heart.
“There is no reason that students shouldn’t enjoy reading, writing, and literacy,” Barnard parent and event coordinator Amy Cheng said. “These kids had such a great time at this party that they didn’t realize they were learning the entire time.”
Last year, the San Diego PTA Council honored Barnard’s Literacy Night with the Ruth Johnson Award, which recognizes innovative programs.What’s next for the lucky kids at Barnard Elementary? Art Night, Science Night, and International Night will take place later this school year. Perhaps there are more tricks (and a few treats) up the school’s sleeve.
For more information on Barnard Elementary School or to apply via the District’s School Choice program (November 13 deadline), visit sandiegounified.org/schools/barnard.
