Brocton’s team was made up of team captain Lilly Burrows, Gianna Himan, Mara Oldham, and Evelyn Skelly with librarian Jacob Galofaro.

Fifth-grade readers from Brocton Elementary joined Ripley Central School to hold their own Battle of the Books in April. This reading trivia tournament has students reading and learning 10 different novels inside and out and meeting twice weekly before school in the months leading up to this competition.

Battle of the Books has had a home at Chautauqua Institution since 2017, but was discontinued this year. This didn’t stop local districts from organizing this important experience for their students.

“Making reading cool isn’t just about getting kids to pick up books — it’s about showing them that knowledge, curiosity, and teamwork matter. Battle of the Books proves that academic competitions deserve the same excitement and recognition as athletics because students should be celebrated just as loudly for what they learn as for how they play,” said Brocton’s District Librarian and team leader, Jacob Galofaro.

Naming themselves the “Spine Crackers”, Brocton students were welcomed by Ripley’s students, teachers, and especially librarian Mrs. Karen Kondrick who organized this event. Competing against other fifth and sixth grade teams, Brocton took home the third place trophy.

Brocton’s team was made up of team captain, Lilly Burrows, Gianna Himan, Mara Oldham, and Evelyn Skelly

“I cannot thank the faculty, staff, and administration of both Brocton and Ripley school districts for their support of this program,” Galofaro said. He also wanted to especially thank the parents of his students.

“Not only do these parents cheer from the bleachers, they encourage and support, they spend time reading at home, and instill the importance of learning through each chapter of their children’s education.”

Parents and students celebrated with a stop at McDonald’s on their way back to school!