Several Mars Area Centennial School students attended the 2026 Children’s Choice Awards, hosted by Allegheny Intermediate Unit and the Allegheny County Library Association on April 15.

Similar to a Mock Newbery program, the event is a collaboration of school and public librarians to help students (Grades 3-6) to choose the best book of the year.

In preparation for the event, sixth-graders Alexander Chernykh, Hannah Craver, Asher Detore, Lila Demetris, Gillian Everest, Lucy Harrison, Constance Miller, Ashrith Muppala, Ellie Spaulding and Adalyn Stuber read up to eight of the nominated books then voted on their favorite. The book, “Library Girl” by Polly Horvath, was selected as the winner.

Ally Russell, author, served as keynote speaker for the event and presented signed copies of her book, “Down Came the Spiders” to each student in attendance. Other activities included a performance by Josh & Gab as well as a Battle of the Books.

The team of sixth-graders Hannah Craver, Asher Detore, Ashrith Muppala and Adalyn Stuber earned second place in the Battle of the Books and were awarded certificates.

For additional information, contact Tomianne Anderson, gifted teacher, at (724) 625-2601 or visit the AIU3 website.