A spellbinding third year: BES and RYMS celebrate Harry Potter Day
OKINAWA, Japan – For the third enchanting year in a row, Bechtel Elementary School (BES) and Ryukyu Middle School (RYMS) filled their shared library with magic, laughter, and wizarding wonder as students celebrated Harry Potter Day. This beloved tradition has grown each year, bringing students together for a day of imagination and school spirit.
The celebration kicked off with students placing their names into the Goblet of Fire for a chance to win exciting prizes. The library transformed into a whimsical world of activities, including cauldron bubbles, trivia, BINGO, pearler bead and wand crafting, Harry Potter Guess Who, wizard’s chess, Pin the Scar on Harry, gold‑grab games, and more. A themed photo booth allowed students to capture memories of their magical day.
Students were enthusiastic from the moment they entered.
“It was so fun. I loved the decorations,” said seventh grader Kelea Naone.
Sixth graders Piper Cook and Lillian Erquitt added, “It was fun, and I wish there was more wizard chess because it was always full!”
The success of this annual event reflects strong collaboration across both schools. Ms. Andrea Petz, RYMS Information Specialist, has supported the event since its start. Special thanks go to Ms. Lisa Korkowski, whose partnership over the past two years helped shape the tradition, and to Ms. Carissa Altizer, the new BES Information Specialist, who continued the celebration this year.
The PTOs from both schools played a vital role with volunteers staffing activity stations, and Ms. Jeanene Golden, BES Advanced Academic Program and Services specialist, added engaging activities and creative decorations that enhanced the experience.
This year’s celebration was made even more memorable with a visit from Dr. Linton, DoW Education Activity’s Chief Academic Officer. Dr. Linton enjoyed watching students fully engaged in each station, celebrating their creativity and energy throughout the event.
We also extend appreciation to Pacific South District Superintendent Dr. Melissa Hayes, Community Superintendent Mr. Craig Maxey, and school leaders Ms. Deborah Connolly (RYMS Principal), Mr. Kale Dyer (RYMS Assistant Principal), and Mr. Scott Tefft (BES Principal) for their ongoing support.
What began as inspiration from Ms. Rayana Windom’s Harry Potter event at Lester Middle School—and strengthened by the activities she continues to share—has now evolved into a cherished tradition for BES and RYMS, made magical by devoted educators, excited students, and a wonderfully supportive community.
The third annual Harry Potter Day was a magical celebration of reading, imagination, and school spirit.
Here’s to many more years of Hogwarts‑inspired fun!
