Palos East rolls out the red carpet for… BOOKS!

“And the Oscar goes to...” Palos East fifth graders celebrated their reading achievements by rolling out the red carpet at their superhero-themed 16th Annual Academy Awards for Books on May 25.

Each quarter, fifth graders are required to read and report on 3-4 books from different genres, exposing them to literature they may never have otherwise chosen. At the end of the year, students nominated and voted on their favorite books in 24 different categories including Best Male and Female Main Characters, Best Inspirational Character, Best Science Fiction, Best Non-Fiction, and more. The program culminated last week with an Academy Awards-style show complete with red carpet, hosts, Oscar trophies, and even paparazzi upon entrance. Fifth graders made a grand entrance, with third and fourth graders in attendance to witness the student-driven ceremony with “celebrity” presenters including District 118 administrators, board members, teachers, and local dignitaries including PFPD Deputy Fire Chief Mike McDonald, Palos Heights Mayor Robert Straz, and Palos Park Mayor John Mahoney.

This year's theme centered around superheroes, and how reading can give anyone superpowers. Presenters explained what their own personal "superpower" was before reading nominees and winners of each category.

“The Academy Awards for Books truly celebrates reading and learning like no other event. It is just amazing to see an audience of over 500 people come to a roaring applause when staff and community members announce the winning book titles,” said Palos East Principal Mr. Rob Szklanecki. “I have to thank the students, parent volunteers, and 5th grade teachers for the work that goes into such a spectacular event.”