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Monsters, Math, and Memories: GPS Schools Celebrate Fall Fun

Monsters, Math, and Memories: GPS Schools Celebrate Fall Fun
Tristan Chavez
Student and family at trunk or treat

Across Gilbert Public Schools, fall isn’t just a season of cooler weather and pumpkin décor — it’s a time when learning and community come together in memorable ways. From parades and festivals to Trunk-or-Treats and cultural celebrations, GPS schools are creating memories that show how education and joy can go hand in hand this ‘spooktacular’ season.

At Burk Elementary, that spirit shines through with Monster Math, an event that turns Halloween into a hands-on learning adventure. Following a costume parade, families are invited into classrooms that are transformed into themed learning spaces. Students rotate between rooms to take on math games designed to spark curiosity and foster critical thinking - from spooky challenges that involve counting, estimating, and reasoning, to creative math stations where families can work together to solve puzzles or complete mini STEM challenges.

Each classroom at Burk offers something unique. Some classes are playing math games, such as Fraction War or Bump Out, while others lean into the Halloween theme with games like Witches’ Brew, Frankenstein Heads, or Haunted Number Hunt. By playing these games, the Monster Math event showcases how students can practice math at home without having expensive workbooks or manipulatives.

“Our goal is to show families that math can be both engaging and accessible,” said Sean Kerr, fifth-grade teacher at Burk Elementary. “Our staff has done a wonderful job creating activities that make learning exciting. I’m so proud of the work they’ve put in to make this parent engagement day a success.”

Haunted house at a school

That same community spirit can be found throughout GPS in the month of October. Greenfield Elementary’s Fall Festival invites families to enjoy music, food trucks, games, and even a petting zoo, while Carol Rae Ranch and Highland Park Elementary light up the night with Trunk-or-Treats. Settler’s Point and Towne Meadows are hosting family events that combine fun and fitness, and Gilbert Elementary’s Día de los Muertos celebration honors tradition and heritage through art and performance. Our secondary schools are also involved! Highland Junior High is hosting a haunted house, while Mesquite High and Gilbert High are welcoming their local communities, students, and families from surrounding schools onto their campuses with Trunk-or-Treats that feature live music and food trucks.

From math games to music and parades to performances, the Halloween season across GPS showcases the heart of our district — where learning is prioritized, families are welcome, and every student is encouraged to grow.