Yorktown Elementary School held its third annual Kids Fair on April 30, drawing students, staff, and volunteers together for a day focused on recreation, celebration, and community engagement. The event, open to students in grades one through five, featured a wide range of activities designed to accommodate varying interests and energy levels. Students could participate in quieter options such as puzzles and arts-and-crafts stations or take part in more active attractions including bounce houses
es, obstacle courses, and water slides. Organizers said the variety helps ensure an inclusive experience for all participants.
Principal Stephanie Zigmond emphasized the importance of community partnerships in sustaining the event.
“A key partner in making Kids Fair possible is our elementary parent organization, ABC (Always Believing in Children), whose generous support continues to play a vital role in the event’s success,” Zigmond said. “Through their contributions, Yorktown Elementary was able to offer a wide variety of engaging activities for students.”
In addition to financial contributions, the ABC organization coordinated parent volunteers who assisted in supervising activity stations throughout the day, helping ensure the event ran safely and efficiently.
Assistant Principal Autumn Kiser highlighted the event’s atmosphere and student excitement.
“The Kids Fair was awesome — the kids had a blast,” Kiser said. “They had the freedom to choose from many options, from outdoor water slides to indoor activities and crafts.”
Students echoed that enthusiasm, frequently pointing to the water-based attractions and interactive activities as highlights of the day.
“I really liked the water slides because they are just so fun,” said fifth grader Kambree Norrell. “I was so excited looking forward to this, so I made sure to always listen and work hard in class.”
Fellow fifth grader Hunter Castillo added, “I liked the water slides and the axe throwing. I even hit the bullseye twice.”
Other students shared similar reactions.
Fifth grader Reece Foerster said the bounce houses and obstacle courses stood out, while fourth graders Palyn Longoria and Avery Watson both cited the water slides as their favorite attraction. Third grader Ryle Merks highlighted both the slides and a winning kickball game, and younger students, including second grader Stormii Knight and first graders Landon Provow and Cataleya Gonzales, described the event as “fun” and “exciting,” particularly enjoying the chance to get wet and try new activities.
Beyond its recreational value, Kids Fair also serves as a source of motivation for students throughout the school year. Zigmond noted that many students began asking about the event months in advance, viewing it as both a celebration and a reward for their efforts.
“It serves as an exciting reminder of the rewards that come with hard work and perseverance,” she said.
Kiser added, 'We love to celebrate students' hard work and academic successes!'
With continued support from the ABC organization and strong community involvement, Yorktown Elementary plans to sustain the Kids Fair as an annual tradition, providing students with memorable experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
