Congers Students Parade Book Floats

Congers Elementary School students put on their own version of a Thanksgiving parade with floats depicting their favorite books on Wednesday morning. Third graders proudly carried, wore, pulled and pushed their creations showing scenes and characters from books they read. A drum band, balloons, cheerleaders and horn tooting students, applauding parents and staff added to the festive atmosphere.

Third grade teachers Lisa Roy and Christina Barnard came up with the idea about a month ago after reading “Balloons Above Broadway,” which tells the story of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and its famous balloon floats.

Roy said it was a joint school/home project with the students sketching out their ideas based on books they read in the third grade and then working on the floats at home.

“But the parents really stepped up and made it all come together,” she said.

Barnard said the children selected books they loved and felt a connection to. 

“It was just so important to do something for the joy and love of books,” said Roy. “That was our motivation.”   

The floats ranged from shoebox size to filling a wagon. Students selected books about Pocahontas, the headless horseman, Flat Stanley, Scooby Doo, UFOs, Emperor Penguins and many others.  The students, who now attend classes at the former St. Augustine’s School in New City because of the closure of Congers Elementary, marched through the gym with broad smiles. 

Serena Mathew and Emily Lai teamed up to make a float based on The Cupcake Club’s “Icing On The Cake.” They said it was a book they liked and their favorite part was when cupcakes were made from a cake.

“It was really fun,” said Lai.

Barnard said they wanted to teach students to enjoy reading and learn more about quality literature.

“We’re going to make this an annual event,” said Roy 

Go here to see photos of the Congers Thanksgiving Book Parade.