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On October 23, 2024, from 5 to 8 p.m., Skyline Middle School transformed into a Halloween wonderland for the fourth consecutive year, thanks to the creative vision of special education teachers Joseph Adams and Jennifer McKelvey. What started as a small event to collect canned goods for the local community has grown into a major highlight of the school year, bringing together students, parents, and community members in a night of fun and giving back.
“It all started a week before we actually needed canned goods,” said Adams, reflecting on the event’s early days. “We planned it in a week, put it together in a week, and it has grown exponentially since then.”
McKelvey added, “It just started a few minutes ago, and the place is already packed. We’re thrilled to see how much it’s grown.”
The event aims to collect non-perishable food items for the school’s annual food drive, which benefits local families in need during Thanksgiving and Christmas. This year’s Halloween extravaganza drew a crowd, and judging by the number of canned goods collected at the door, it’s already a success.
Spooky Fun for a Good Cause
One of the evening’s main attractions was the debut of the Haunted Hallway, a new addition to the event and a project proudly led by Skyline’s seventh and eighth-grade art students, who transformed a section of the school into a creepy, eerie maze-filled with spooky surprises.
“We’ve never had a Haunted Hallway before, and the students did an incredible job,” he said. “We’ve got about 15 students working it this year.”
In addition to the Haunted Hallway, the school was filled with candy stations, games, and seasonal decorations. From “Pumpkin Bowling” to “Witch’s Brew,” where students tossed eyeballs into cauldrons, the night offered endless entertainment for kids and families. Attendees also had the chance to win prizes, including stuffed animals and other Halloween goodies.
Community Support Makes it Possible
Skyline’s Halloween event wouldn’t have been possible without generous community involvement. Local businesses donated apples and pumpkins for the festivities. “The community really comes together when we host events like this,” Adams said.
But the support didn’t stop there. The school also held a candy drive leading up to the event, collecting a staggering 32,000 pieces of candy to distribute throughout the night. This generosity ensured every child had more than enough sweets and prizes.
Student-Driven Success
The night’s success was largely due to the students participating and taking on significant leadership roles. Skyline’s students were at the heart of the event, from running the Haunted Hallway to managing games and activities.
“This is all about the students,” McKelvey said. “They’ve put so much work into this. They’ve stayed after school, helped with decorations, and made this night special.”
A Musical Finale
To add to the festive atmosphere, the school’s band, led by band director Breanna Leach, treated guests to a lineup of spooky tunes, including “Thriller” and “Ghostbusters.” The seventh and eighth-grade students volunteered their time to perform Halloween-themed music throughout the night, adding to the event’s vibrant, community-focused energy.
“These students have been incredible,” said Leach. “They’re playing music that fits the Halloween theme perfectly, and it’s just so much fun.”
Growing Bigger Every Year
Adams and McKelvey, who have organized the event since its inception, are thrilled with its growth over the years. The first year was planned in just one week, but each year has seen more activities, community involvement, and excitement.
“This is our fourth year, and it’s bigger than ever,” Adams said. “We’ve got support from businesses, local families, and even people outside Warren County.”
The event provides a night of fun and helps showcase the spirit of Skyline Middle School. With so many students involved, the event brings out the best in everyone.
“This will be an annual tradition,” McKelvey said. “We love seeing how much the community enjoys it, and it’s all for a good cause.”
For Skyline Middle School, Halloween is more than just costumes and candy—it’s a time to come together, have fun, and give back to those in need. With the success of this year’s event, it’s clear that Skyline’s Halloween tradition will continue to thrive for years to come.
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