Salt River Schools transported students and families as far back as the 1950s at their Fall Into Reading event on Sept. 18. 

The theme for this year’s event was “Oldies but Goodies.” Families dressed up in their best outfits from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. Attendees were able to participate in a costume contest to win gnarly prizes and show off their rad outfits.

The event took place in the Accelerated Learning Academy (ALA) gym, which was transformed into a sock hop and open to all. Resources from education and Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community departments were available. Tables lined the gym walls with information, interactive games and promotional items. 

Fall Into Reading was geared to students of all ages, and there was something for everyone to participate in. After visiting all the tables, students and families had the opportunity to pick out a book. The books ranged from pre-K to young adult. 

Students and families also had the opportunity to win prizes by going up on stage and introducing themselves in O’odham or Piipaash.

In O’odham, students said Añi añ ap ce:gig (insert name) (my name is).

In Piipaash, students said Nyaa (insert name) ‘iim mmulyk (my name is). 

Diné author Daniel Vandever was in attendance and spoke about his children’s book “Herizon” and his road to becoming an author. He read his book to attendees and showed the pages through a projector.

Toward the end of the event, staff members taught students some dance moves straight out of the 1950s. Students also had the chance to earn a prize by participating in a hula hoop challenge; two young girls ended up going head-to-head for the prize. 

Fall Into Reading was a major success, with many families attending. The gym was filled with cool cats laughing, twisting and sharing their newfound knowledge. For upcoming events, check the Salt River Schools website at www.saltriverschools.org.