Rivera Middle School shares ‘the Force’ on ‘Star Wars’ Day

“Star Wars” fans wait all year for May 4.

Playing on the catchphrase “May the Force be with you,” the pun “May the Fourth be with you” was born. The date has become the unofficial holiday to celebrate the classic film series, books and culture.

But “Star Wars” Day is not only a trending topic on social media; in many places around the world, enthusiasts dress up as their favorite characters, play trivia and throw “Star Wars”-themed parties.

At Rivera Middle School in Merced, some students and staff got in on the action. Many wore their favorite “Star Wars” T-shirts to class, and some kicked it up a notch by dressing up as one of the iconic characters.

During lunchtime, Darth Vader, Princess Leia, a Jedi and a stormtrooper wandered the halls together.

Destiny Turner, a seventh- and eighth-grade science teacher, said Monday kicked off the school’s spirit week. Each year, she explained, school leaders come up with a list of spirit days and activities that allows students to get a little creative.

“This is one way to promote school spirit,” said Turner. “Kids get excited, and it’s nice to see them participate.”

Seventh-grade teacher Kayla Corona showed her love for the saga by dressing up as Darth Vader. She explained that even if students do not dress up, they enjoy it when their teachers do.

“I don’t consider myself a devoted fan, but I do love the films,” Corona said. “They’re classics.”

Students will also observe Cinco de Mayo on Tuesday and Nurse Appreciation Day on Wednesday. Students will have another opportunity to dress up on Thursday for Ninja Day.

This story was originally published May 4, 2015 at 5:31 PM with the headline "Rivera Middle School shares ‘the Force’ on ‘Star Wars’ Day."