Indy Standard

The recent IPS Battle of the Books District Competition at Central Library concluded with Merle Sidener Academy 59 clinching the 2025 championship on March 20. Teams comprised of 3rd-5th graders representing five schools showcased their reading abilities by answering questions based on books nominated for the Young Hoosier Intermediate Book Award by the Indiana Library Federation.

Participants from Joseph J. Bingham School 84, Benjamin Harrison School 2, Mary Nicholson School 70, Eliza Blaker School 55, and Merle Sidener Academy 59 competed, but ultimately Merle Sidener Academy 59 took the top prize. The school’s triumphant team was guided by media educator Debra Bunch, consisting of students Malak Saeed, Maria Saenz, and Micah Schwantes-An. Their strong teamwork and literary analysis secured their victory.

"The goal is to encourage students to read critically, reflect on what they’ve learned, and collaborate with their teammates," said Casey O’Leary, a media specialist at Mary Nicholson School 70, who played a key role in organizing the event. "This contest allows them to showcase those skills in a fun and engaging way."

Participants invested six months into reading and summarizing at least 10 of the 20 nominated books to prepare for their school’s contest. According to O’Leary, each school’s best team moved forward to the district-level competition at Central Library, highlighting the partnership between IPS and the Indianapolis Public Library.

Joe Troyer, IPS District Library Coordinator, emceed the event, ensuring vibrant enthusiasm as the teams faced off in the competition.