Creative balloons, local heroes at KSES’s own Thanksgiving parade

Kingston Springs Elementary School (KSES) kicked off the holiday season in style with an unforgettable afternoon at their “Balloons Over Broadway” Thanksgiving parade. Students from every grade level displayed their creativity by designing and showcasing unique balloon creations, adding a burst of color and joy to the event.

Inspired by the story of Tony Sarg, the puppeteer who helped transform the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, KSES students took center stage with their artistic balloon designs, each class contributing something special. The parade was a true community celebration, bringing together families, local heroes and festive surprises.

“The book Balloons over Broadway by Melissa Sweet is a book that tells the story of puppeteer Tony Sarg, the man who first invented the helium balloons that have become the trademark of the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade,” KSES Principal Andrea Bledsoe said. “Homerooms at KSES created balloons to represent their homeroom and we had our own parade complete with high school cheerleaders, The Ark, Kingston Springs police and fire, as well as the Cheatham County SWAT truck. Our parade would not be complete without our mascot Big Red.” 

The local community turned out in full force to support the event. The Kingston Springs Fire Department made a heroic appearance, while the Harpeth High School cheerleaders energized the crowd with spirited performances. Adding a bit of mischievous fun, the Grinch made a special appearance, delighting children and adults alike.

In a show of school spirit, the beloved Cardinal mascot rode high with the SWAT team, while the PTO turkey float added a humorous touch to the parade. The celebration was made even more festive by the South Cheatham County librarians, who donned inflatable costumes, bringing even more joy to the event.

KSES students held their own version of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 25, constructing their own balloons based off the book "Balloons Over Broadway." / CCSD

Separately, on Nov. 22, KSES was named a Reward School by the Tennessee Department of Education for the fourth consecutive year. 

Reward School status is the top distinction a school can earn in Tennessee. Schools receiving this designation exemplify student success in achievement and growth in the tested areas. This is the eighth time overall that KSES has been named a Reward School, also receiving the honor in 2012, 2017, 2018 and 2019.