Mercedes ISD is proud to celebrate all the amazing students who showcased their literary knowledge and teamwork at in this year’s Battle of the Books competition. Students from each campus demonstrated their skills and dedication by answering a wide range of questions about four pre-selected book titles, highlighting their commitment to reading and academic excellence.
The annual competition provides a platform for students to not only display their individual talents but also celebrate the strength of the Mercedes ISD community. It was inspiring to see our students reconnect with former librarians, principals, and teachers, bringing together generations in shared enthusiasm for reading and learning.
Congratulations to Ruben Hinojosa Elementary School, Sgt. Manuel Chacon Middle School, and Mercedes High School, whose teams earned first-place honors and will now advance to represent Mercedes ISD at the upcoming Region One ESC Regional Battle of the Books Competition.
Battle of the Books Results:
High School Division
1st Place: Mercedes High School – Zachary Sanchez, Carlie Rabel, Nora Gonzalez, and Adrian Gonzales.
2nd Place: Mercedes Early College Academy – Isaiah Banda, Hania Ramirez, and Asia Chapman.
3rd Place: Mercedes High School – Alexa Ochoa, Fijlis Estrada, and Natalia Guerra.
Middle School Division
1st Place: Sgt. Manuel Chacon Middle School – Serenity Cano, Emma Martinez, and Jake Peña.
2nd Place: Sgt. Manuel Chacon Middle School – Via Garza, Zaylee Mireles, Camila Rincon-Vasquez, and Korey Martinez.
3rd Place (Tie): Sgt. Harrell Middle School – Grace Wright, Sofia Anguiano, and Charlotte Espitia.
3rd Place (Tie): Sgt. Harrell Middle School – Noah Martinez, Eliud Martinez, and Marisa Molina.
Elementary School Division
1st Place: Ruben Hinojosa Elementary School – Layla Garza, Lilian Gonzalez, Alessandra Gonzalez, and Tyler Flores.
2nd Place: Ruben Hinojosa Elementary School – Clarissa Garcia, Olivia Soto, Ximena Flores, and David Salazar.
3rd Place: W.B. Travis Elementary School – Sophia Vasquez, Jorge Reyna, Andres Ramoz, and Montserrat Guevara.
We are so proud of all the participating students (and their hard-working librarians) for their efforts, teamwork, and enthusiasm for reading. Their outstanding performances continue to inspire a culture of literacy and academic achievement within the district. Stay tuned as our 1st place teams represent us at the regional competition!