S-G literary pumpkin contest winners

It was a districtwide elementary literary pumpkin celebration!

The districtwide elementary literary pumpkin celebration has truly become a beloved tradition across all participating schools. Each contest highlights the artistic talents and literary passions of students, while fostering a love for reading and creativity. Here’s a closer look at how each school brought their unique flair to the event. 

Lincoln Elementary

Celebrating its 10th annual pumpkin contest, Lincoln Elementary once again showcased an impressive array of pumpkins. With 63 student-created pumpkins lining the library shelves, each representing beloved book characters, the event was a visual feast. Library Media Specialist Lauren Capuano expressed her delight at the students’ ability to surprise the judges with their originality and artistic skills. A winner was chosen from each grade level, ensuring that every age group had a chance to shine.

Winning Pumpkins

Click the links below to reveal the character pumpkins

Sacandaga Elementary

For the first time, Sacandaga Elementary joined the celebration, setting a record with 102 pumpkins entered. Under the guidance of Library Media Specialist Kari Moretti, the event was a resounding success. With such a large number of entries, ties were inevitable, leading to additional winners and unique categories such as “Most Creative” and “Outstanding Effort.” Ms. Moretti praised the students for their imaginative contributions, which truly enhanced the festive atmosphere.

Winning Pumpkins

Click the links below to reveal the character pumpkins

K-2nd Grade Category
3rd-5th Grade Category
  • First Place: Hartley Rosa for Jawbreaker by Christina Wyman
  • Second Place: Sofia Gabree for Pig the Pug by Aaron Blabey, Shiloh DePalma for Owl Diaries by Rebecca Elliot, Tristan Daley for The Wild Robot by Peter Brown, Rylynn Boniewski for The Bad Seed by Jory John, Grayson Mial for Lightfall by Tim Probert, and Emma Rose for The Knight Owl by Christopher Denise
  • Third Place: Ella Brady for Hagrid from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling, William Stachowiak for The Wild Robot by Peter Brown, and Juliet Madison for The Kingdom of Wrenly.
  • Most Creative Award: Amelia O’Connor for Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, Adalyn Holt for If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff and Iris Frank for Bird and Squirrel: All or Nothing by James Burkes

Glen-Worden Elementary

Glen-Worden Elementary’s contest featured 42 unique entries, some unlike anything seen before. The event was divided into two categories: one for Kindergarten through second grade, and another for third through fifth grade. This structure allowed for a more focused evaluation of the students’ work, highlighting specific age-appropriate creativity and skill levels. The Library Media Specialist noted the originality of the entries, which captivated everyone involved.

Winning Pumpkins

Click the links below to reveal the character pumpkins

Glendaal Elementary

At Glendaal Elementary, the literary pumpkin contest coincided with the school’s Fall Fest, allowing a wider audience to appreciate the students’ efforts. With 60 pumpkins vying for attention, nine winners were ultimately selected. Library Media Specialist Lisa Keating commended the students for their enthusiasm and the wide variety of characters represented. She expressed her relief at not having to choose a single winner, as all entries held a special charm.

Winning Pumpkins

  • Kindergarten: Lincoln Marchand
  • Kindergarten: Dominic Puglisi
  • Kindergarten: Carter Kirtley
  • 1st grade: Gino Puglisi
  • 2nd grade: Reagan Marchand
  • 3rd grade: Emma Benson
  • 3rd grade: Ben Hewitt
  • 5th grade: Felix Nilsson
  • 5th grade: Harper Schrader