West Middlesex students stage indoor balloon parade

Nov. 26—WEST MIDDLESEX — Gathered in the school gymnasium, Oakview Elementary School's students were treated to an early holiday parade before the Thanksgiving break.

While students from kindergarten through third grade watched, the fourth-through-sixth graders formed a "Balloons Over Broadway Parade" that snaked through the gym, eliciting cheers and laughter from the audience.

Many participants carried colorful balloons decorated in a variety of themes — from familiar characters like the Minions, Pikachu from Pokemon and Sandy from Spongebob Squarepants, to more holiday-themed balloons, including one dressed like Buddy from the film Elf.

Other students entertained the audience in different ways, including a few students who danced and twirled batons and third grader Oliver Hughes dressed as a dinosaur.

Fellow third graders Avery Erickson and Daisy Weber carried a banner that led the parade along its route.

"I think this is something we can do again next year, but maybe we'll change the theme or have the kids make something different," fourth grade teacher Mary Sue Thomas said.

In the weeks before their parade, the students read the nonfiction book "Balloons Over Broadway" by Melissa Sweet, which told the story of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade, Thomas said.

Librarian Gaylynn Kuncio provided the students with even more history regarding the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. Then the students designed and made their balloons in art teacher Brad Sarchet's class.

The West Middlesex elementary PTO supplied the balloons and supplies for the parade, and a few parents even blew up the balloons before the parade began, Thomas said.

"I think it was exciting for the kids to see their creations come to fruition," fourth grade teacher Hailey Hause said.