Tomoka Elementary team wins first place at Battle of the Books

This year was the first that elementary schools in Volusia County participated in the quiz-bowl style reading competition.

Observer Staff

Tomoka Elementary’s Battle of the Books team won first place at the countywide reading competition at Daytona State College on March 24. This year was the first that ele mentary schools in Volusia County participated in Battle of the Books, a quiz-bowl style competition where students are asked details about books that are part of the annual Sunshine State Young Readers Award list.

Middle and high schools in Volusia County have regularly competed in the competition.

Tomoka Elementary placed first out of 26 teams, making the school team the first to take the title at the elementary level, according to a statement supplied to the Observer

“We put a lot of effort in this competition, and it all paid off,” said Hailey Lucas, fourth grade Tomoka Elementary student and Battle of the Books team captain. “I really enjoyed reading all the books, and thank my team for choosing me as team captain. We were a great team.”

Tionis Fordham, one of the team’s coaches and an academic coach at Tomoka, said in the statement that the competition was a “wonderful adventure.”

“It is truly amazing and invigorating to be part of such a wonderful journey,” Fordham said. “The commitment to excellence demonstrated

FROM THE STUDENTS’ PERSPECTIVE

“Battle of the Books made me read books that I would not have chosen, but I liked them. Thanks to my teachers and my teammate friends for a great time.”

ELENA NUGENT, fourth grade

“I am very proud of Tomoka and all their hard work. It wasn’t scary, but it was intimidating at times.”

CARTER EDWARDS, fourth grade

“Life is like a ladder. You might fall, but you need to keep climbing to make it to the top.”

DEIRA RIVAS, third grade by the student team, parent supporters and district staff truly showcased some wonderful work taking place within Volusia County schools. I’m extremely proud of our Tomoka team for the hard work and dedication that contributed toward this momentous achievement.”

Fourth teacher and team coach Lisi Brugone said she was beaming with pride at the team’s success, and that the competition ignited a love for books in many students.

“I am in awe of the determination and pride I saw from every school that participated in this Battle of the Books competition,” Brugone said.

“Every team has made their school proud! Volusia County did a phenomenal job making this competition a success.”

In addition to Hailey, the team was composed of fourth grade students Elena Nugent and Carter Edwards, as well as third grade students Valentina Alvorado and Deira Rivas.

“I love books and enjoy being competitive,” Valentina said. “Battle of the Books gave me the opportunity to thrive while reading and competing with friends. I can’t wait for next year.”

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