Many schools across the country will choose Halloween as their big fall holiday celebration, but for nearly two decades teachers and students at Riverside Middle School in New Castle have opted to spend a day every fall to celebrate Harvest Days and the local agriculture community.

Riverside Middle School Principal Karen Satter said the Harvest Days theme acknowledges the community’s roots, as the school adjusts its activities to reflect the diverse interests of students and community members.

Earlier this month, the students at Riverside Middle School participated in a variety of different lessons and exercises for Harvest Days, including corn husk doll making, tortilla making, fire department obstacle courses, hayrides, a petting zoo, making apple cider using an apple press, and more.

Colorado River Fire Rescue public information officer Maria Pina said this was the second year they set up obstacle courses for students. A lot of the activities were based on the agility tests that volunteers and firefighters are required to complete. Fire crews worked with seventh-graders throughout the day, as each grade was split into different activities.

“We would like to continue working with and building our community relationships to offer opportunities that educate and engage our students,” Satter added. “It is a tradition at Riverside and one that we value as a part of our culture.”

azorn@citizentelegram.com