On December 18, members of the Star Valley High School Speech and Debate team spent the day at Etna Elementary helping the sixth-grade classes celebrate a Harry Potter–themed activity day. The team decorated classrooms, played games, led crafts, and spent time connecting with students—making the event fun, memorable, and full of Hogwarts spirit.
When the team arrived, they helped transform Mrs. Helgesen’s classroom into a Harry Potter wonderland. Students set up themed decorations, organized materials, and prepared stations for games and crafts. Many sixth graders arrived dressed in Hogwarts robes, eager for the day to begin. They helped set up Mrs. Helgesen’s classroom with a whole bunch of Harry Potter decorations to make the day fun for her students.
Speech and Debate students worked with the sixth graders on a variety of magical activities. Together, they made felt ties—specifically Hufflepuff ties, which matched the house assigned to the class. Students also learned new card games, created Harry Potter–themed fortune tellers, and enjoyed a game packet provided by their teacher. During the movie Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, helpers passed out popcorn and snacks while assisting wherever needed. Kaelana Crnkovich shared, “The kids were super sweet. They grew comfortable with us quickly, and they can’t wait until we return!”
Beyond crafts and games, the event was a chance for Speech and Debate members to bond with the sixth graders. Students asked the high schoolers questions about their favorite video games and what being on the team is like. By the end of the day, the sixth graders were enthusiastically teaching the high schoolers their own card games and didn’t want the team to leave.
The experience was meaningful for both the elementary students and the Speech and Debate team. Maya Mavy reflected, “6th graders are very much in an awkward phase of their lives, but all of them were so unique and had so much personality. I’m so grateful that the speech and debate team was invited to jump in on one of the funniest days of the year, and I think both the team and the class had a great time.” The team left feeling energized, appreciated, and excited to return for future activities—proving that a little magic and mentorship can go a long way.
