Haywood County Schools celebrates Book-O-Ween

Superheroes, princesses, and book characters got off school buses and out of car line as elementary schools across Haywood County celebrated Book-O-Ween throughout the month of October.

Held right before Halloween, Book-O-Ween is a tradition held at most of Haywood County Schools’ elementary schools as a way to incorporate literacy and learning into Halloween.

To the delight of students, many of the faculty and staff at each school also dressed up.

This was the sixth year that Bethel Elementary School has held Book-O-Ween.

“Book-O-Ween is a fun way to share our love of reading with students,” Bethel Elementary School Principal Kim Shipman said. “And who doesn’t like dressing up?”

At each school, students rotated through classrooms to listen to a variety of books. By the end of the day, students had heard anywhere from five to 10 different books, including favorites like Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, Frankenstein Makes a Sandwich, and Cat in the Hat.

“Book-O-Ween provides an opportunity for teachers and students to dress up, have fun, and read new books, as well as some classics,” Hazelwood Elementary Title I Instructor Becky Pope said. “Our goal is to help students find joy in books as they explore new titles and authors.”

Along with school staff members, PTO and parent volunteers helped make the Book-O-Ween events at each school memorable for students.