Battle of the Books draws high participation at Yokota West

YOKOTA, JAPAN – Yokota West Elementary hosted a Battle of the Books “for the books” on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, with 60 percent of third, fourth, and fifth grade students participating in the event.

This year, students competed in teams of four and as a team had to read 12 titles from a variety of genres and reading levels. Each student was required to read at least three titles in order to participate. The competition took place in the library and was fierce, with four teams tying for the top two places. This led to a showdown round on Kahoot to determine the final placements.

“I was able to read aloud two of the books to the students during our snack time,” said fourth grade teacher Elizabeth Walters. “The students were engaged and often didn’t want me to stop … I was so impressed with how often the students asked for time during the school day to read or pulled their books out when they had a few minutes to spare.”

Students watched as the event began, with many parents also attending the event to support their student.

“It was fun to watch [the students] get competitive and try to win with the knowledge they have gained by reading these great books,” said Melanie Schutte, third grade parent.

“[My student] really hopes that this is a recurring event at the school,” said Ron Parks, third grade parent.

The event was made possible thanks to Educational Technologist Cheryl Johnson, Advanced Academic Program and Services teacher Beth Polansky, Information Specialist Anne Davis, Literacy Specialist Nicole Parker and Acting Principal Dr. Neva Wise. Classroom teachers were also critical in making this event successful, with teachers encouraging students to participate and even reading aloud books to them.

“It was so exciting to hear our students talking about the books they read from the list … Then after months of preparation … [to see them] participate in the competition where they showed teamwork and enthusiasm for reading while the rest of the school and community members cheered them on,” Ms. Johnson said.

Multiple students found their new favorite books and students who didn’t participate in the competition chose to read books from the Battle list, cultivating a love for reading at Yokota West.