We finished 2019 with our annual Christmas Program, featuring music and a visit from Santa. Classes resume Tuesday, January 7.

In the morning, Santa visited with JPK and PK in the library, where librarian Elizabeth Oakes, dressed as an elf, read aloud "'Twas the Night Before Christmas."

Grades K-5 assembled in the theater for the Christmas program. The choir, which includes third through fifth graders, sang "Ding Dong! Merrily on High," "Season of Bells" and "Dreidel Spin." Handbell groups played "Good King Wenceslas," "Jolly Old St. Nicholas," "Joy to the World," and "O Tannebaum." Fifth graders sang "Silent Night" in English and Spanish with several accompanying on autoharps.

Fifth graders talked about the holidays and traditions their families observe, including Hanukkah, Diwali, Eid, Ramadan, and Chinese New Year. Students also talked about Christmas in Great Britain and America and Three Kings' Day in Puerto Rico.

All teachers gathered on the stage to sing "Must Be Santa," and Santa entered from back of the theater. Fifth graders and their kindergarten buddies went up on stage to get candy canes from Santa while Mr. Morgan read "'Twas the Night Before Christmas." Mrs. McAllister, the longest-serving employee at the school, then introduced alumni who were present.

The assembly finished with the singing of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas."

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Happy Holidays to everyone!