Students, families follow the clues to solve mystery together

Saturday, November 15, 2014
Charleston Middle School's Mystery Night led families on a hunt for clues to determine who kidnapped "Billy Blue," the Charleston school mascot. Submitted Photo

CHARLESTON -- Who kidnapped Billy Blue, the Charleston Blue Jays mascot? This case led families to search the CMS building, looking for clues to determine the guilty suspect, the tool they used, and which area Billy was held in.

"Middle School Mystery Night" was held Oct. 21 at Charleston Middle School, for grades sixth through eighth and their families. The event was a product of CMS parent involvement, said B.J. Babb, Parent Liaison.

Stephanie Grimes, CMS special education teacher, led an opening assembly, revealing that evidence cards were hidden around the school building. Six different activities, including "Library Lookup," "Evidence Room," and "Dark Band Room," required families to think, use reading skills and work together as a team.

During a closing assembly, Grimes revealed the culprit. It was "the science teacher" in the CMS gym with the jump rope. This led to a staged police chase, with CMS eighth grade science teacher Dan DeField running from resource officer Brenda Bickford. In a triumphant finale, Billy Blue arrived in person and caught DeField.

Near the end of the event, pizza was served in the commons. Drinks were provided by Opaa! Food Service.