The following piece was provided by Hosmer Elementary School:
On Friday, Dec. 5, Hosmer School proudly concluded its annual Literacy Week, a vibrant celebration of the theme “The Power of Words” held districtwide in Watertown from December 1-5, 2025. The week highlighted how words shape communication, spark imagination, and strengthen community. The guiding message “Words have power. We communicate with our words. We paint pictures with words” framed a series of engaging activities for students, staff, and families.
Throughout the week, classrooms participated in ongoing literacy initiatives, including daily independent reading and a school-wide Mystery Reader program. Teachers, parents, and community members – some appearing in their professional uniforms – surprised students by visiting classrooms to share read-alouds. “Staff, students, and the greater Watertown community came together in wonderful ways to create a joyful and dynamic week” said Mia Mulvey, Hosmer School Literacy Coach.
Students also took part in a spirited Scrabble Challenge, teaming up with classmates, teachers, and fellow Huskies to craft “wonderful, whimsical, wacky, wild words.” The challenges focused on speed, word value, and efficiency, prompting creative and collaborative wordplay.
A major highlight of the week was the visit from featured author Charles R. Smith, who led presentations for multiple grade levels and hosted a midday book signing. Mr. Smith shared insights into his journey as an author, his creative inspirations, and the process behind choosing his book subjects. Students had the opportunity to ask questions directly, deepening their connection to writing and storytelling. “The author’s visit was made possible by a generous contribution from the Watertown Community Foundation, for which we are truly grateful,” said
Principal Erin Moulton.
Literacy week celebrations culminated in a joyful, community-wide Literacy Night on Thursday Dec. 4. Families gathered in the Amphitheater, where they were welcomed by the Principal and the Husky mascot before exploring activity stations throughout the school. Offerings included “Read to the Dog” accompanied by Officer Wyatt, a fun Bingo for Books game in the cafeteria, flashlight reading, multilingual and student read-alouds, community crafts section, a “Mic Drop” Poetry Slam, and a Husky Photo Booth. Families were also encouraged to pick up a “Bedtime Stories to Go” book giveaway.
The Hosmer School PTO and the Watertown Free Public Library were on hand throughout the evening to share resources, answer questions, and support families.