Bloom High School Strengthens Community Bonds And Promotes Literacy At Trunk Or Treat Event

CHICAGO HEIGHTS, IL — The Chicago Heights East Golf Course came alive with laughter, creativity, and community spirit as Bloom High School proudly participated in the annual Trunk or Treat celebration, hosted by Alderman Wanda Rogers and her office.

The event, designed to provide a safe and festive Halloween experience for families, featured
creatively decorated car trunks, treats, games, and music. Bloom High School staff, students, and
volunteers took part by decorating trunks that reflected school pride and a shared love for
community engagement.

This year’s Trunk or Treat offered more than candy and costumes — it offered books. In
alignment with the “Bloom Reads Literacy in Action Initiative,” Bloom High School made
literacy a highlight of the event by distributing books to children and adults alike. Each trunk
overflowed not only with sweets, but also with stories waiting to be opened, shared, and
cherished.

The response from families was overwhelmingly positive. Children’s faces lit up with
excitement as they received both a treat and a new book to take home. Parents and grandparents
were just as delighted, often expressing how meaningful it was to receive something that would
last beyond the night’s festivities. For many, the books sparked conversations about favorite
authors, new titles to explore, and the joy of reading together as a family.

“This was a beautiful opportunity for us to show what Bloom pride looks like outside of the

classroom,” said Diane Oliver, Division Coordinator and leader of Bloom’s Literacy in Action
Team, Bloom Reads. “It’s always special when our Bloom family comes together in service and
celebration. Trunk or Treat reminds us that education extends beyond academics — it’s about
connection, creativity, and care.

Alderman Wanda Rogers, a proud Bloom High School alumna, expressed her joy in having
Bloom High School participate once again in her annual Trunk or Treat event. She shared how
thrilled she was to see her alma mater so deeply involved in the community.

“It means so much to see Bloom High School here every year,” Rogers said. “As a former Bloom Trojan, myself, it fills me with pride to see the next generation representing the school with such
enthusiasm and heart.”

Adding to the excitement, Bloom staff and students were treated to a special surprise visit from
Illinois State Representative Anthony DeLuca, who stopped by to greet attendees, shake
hands, and take pictures with the Bloom team. Representative DeLuca’s presence added to the
spirit of civic pride, emphasizing the importance of community partnerships and youth
engagement in local events.

The theme for Bloom’s participation this year centered around “Literacy in Action: BLOOM
READS!” By combining the fun of Halloween with the gift of reading, Bloom High School
reinforced its mission to promote a lifelong love of learning. The books served as both a treat and
a tool — inspiring curiosity, imagination, and a sense of community among families.
The event not only brought joy to local families but also reinforced the district’s ongoing mission
to strengthen partnerships within the Chicago Heights community. Bloom High School remains
committed to building bridges between school and community through literacy, leadership, and
shared experiences that bring people together.