CORNELIUS – J.V. Washam Elementary School earned a President’s Award for Exceptional Performance for Student Engagement in the Scholastic Book Fair’s National Elementary School Contest for their 2010 fall book fair. The semi-annual competition encourages schools to attract and increase student and adult interest in their book fairs, as well as in books and reading.

During last fall’s “Here’s Our Heroes” book fair, the book fair committee used a heroes theme to create many opportunities to engage students. Teachers asked students to write about a personal hero who has made an impact on their lives. Each project was displayed on a form in the shape of a star or U.S. flag to create a Wall of Heroes for the fair.

To generate more school spirit and enthusiasm Principal Raymond Giovanelli and Assistant Principal Scott Otolski became superheroes to support a loose change drive for Scholastic’s One for Books program.

Scholastic Book Fairs President Alan Boyko praised the enthusiasm and competitive spirit shown by J.V. Washman and other schools across the country involved in the book fair program. “The national contest is designed to help schools connect young minds with the excitement of books and the thrill of reading,” Boyko said. “It was difficult to choose only one winner from the many outstanding submissions we received.”

The award was one of eight President’s Awards given to schools participating in the contest. The competition recognizes schools that use the most creative methods, such as themes, decorations, advertising, student activities, faculty involvement and family events, to promote their book fairs and encourage a passion for reading.