Battle of the Books is a competition for students in grades four and five who have a passion for reading.  Selected students will be asked to read approximately fifteen books and become an expert on the content read. During the competition, students win points for their ability to recall intricate details of the books.  It is an exciting opportunity for book-lovers to compete in a fun, competitive environment, and to build friendships with other like-minded students.

To prepare our students for the competition, they meet after school on Tuesdays in the Media Center from 3:15 to 4:45 to practice and review book summaries. If you would like more information on Battle of the Books, please contact our Media Center Coordinator, Ms.Smith by calling 910.860.7058 or via email, mischasmith@ccsk12.nc.us

As part of its dedication to community service,  Modern Woodmen of the World launched its Civic Oration Contest in 1948.  The contest is an important annual event at Bill Hefner Elementary for fifth-grade students.  It helps students develop and exercise public speaking skills.  Winners of our school-level contest may have the opportunity to advance to competition at the county, state, and national level.

Jr. Beta Club is the largest independent, non-profit, educational youth organization in America. It has helped prepare today’s students to be tomorrow’s leaders. The National Beta Club promotes character, develops leadership skills, encourages service involvement, recognizes achievement, and provides technological advantages to students. Fourth and fifth-grade students are selected for this group based on high scholastic achievement and outstanding character.

Each year, the fourth and fifth-grade teachers select one student from each class to compete in the Bill Hefner Spelling Bee.  The winner from the school spelling bee then goes on to compete at the district level and hopes to qualify for the county, state, and/or national level.