As the weather turns colder and snow starts to fall, Moses DeWitt Elementary School students look forward to an annual school tradition: getting snowballed.
It’s not what you may be thinking. Classes that are “snowballed” receive a surprise visit from Chilly, a stuffed snowman, who is passed from classroom-to-classroom bringing with him a book to be read aloud. After returning the book to the school library, each class then selects a new book and picks the next class for Chilly to surprise.
“It really gets the kids excited to read,” said third-grade teacher Jodi Schwedes, whose class was recently snowballed. “Kids love a surprise.”
Schwedes said the students eagerly anticipate the arrival of Chilly, who typically starts visiting classrooms in December and spends a few days in each room until each classroom has been visited. The tradition grew from the school’s character education and literacy committees about three years ago.
“This fun reading activity promotes the love of reading while providing an opportunity for each class to share a good book with another class at Moses,” said Moses DeWitt Principal Mary Sylvester.
You’ve been snowballed!
It’s a snowball fight,
And you’ve all been invited;
Be happy! Be glad!
I know you’re excited!
My name is Chilly;
I’m here for a very special
reason…..
Hooray for December!
It’s a holiday season!
You’ve been hit with a
Snowball
In the form of a book;
Sit back and relax
And then take a look!
Our class chose this story
For your class to enjoy;
I’m sure it’ll be loved
By each girl and each boy.
Then, return this book to the
Library,
And choose something new!
I’ll bring this new book with me
To the next unsuspecting crew.
That’s how you play!
Your book is your snowball!
“Throw” yours upstairs or
Downstairs,
Or right down the hall.
Before I take off,
Cross your name off my list.
This is to be sure that
No classroom is missed!
Take a group picture with me,
Then hang it on your door!
This will show others,
I’ve been here before!
–Chilly