Elementary Christmas presentations
Feliz Navidad! Khamosh hai raath! Koyohan pam! Korukhan pam!
In various languages, the children of the elementary school wished each other a Merry Christmas and told of that silent night long ago when Jesus was born. For three days during the last week of school, the annual elementary Tea Garden Christmas festivities were shared as the fifth grade hosted and each class led the others in carols, lighting of the advent candles, reading of the Christmas story and ending with different staff members sharing stories they love.
The first morning was led by the Early Childhood Program, each child decked out with an animal hat and accompanied by the fifth grade on recorders and drums. Camels, cows, sheep, pigs and donkeys led the others in various songs with a special focus on the animals that surrounded the baby Jesus. Neeraj Prakash, dad to 3rd grader Nayan and high school journalism teacher told the story of Simon and the Snowman, urging the children to be generous people.
Day two, the 4th grade performed, each song being introduced by a different student. The boys were all wearing the crowns of the three wisemen, the girls decked out in holiday garb, some even with Rudolph noses. The highlight was certainly "The 12 Days of Christmas" complete with hand motions. Karen Cooke, mom to Emma, Tristan and Sam as well as ECP teacher told the story of a very special star and the shepherd children who received a wonderful gift from her.
On day three the third graders led carols as well as performed Dona Nobis Pacem and a song of blessing with hand chimes. The class ended by giving handmade bookmarks to each person with a blessing for hope, joy and peace printed on it. Sue Rollins, fifth grade teacher, read from the "golden oldie," Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
Each morning ended with hot chocolate and Christmas cookies, many of them made by the elementary students. This was a warm and wonderful end to the semester, sending each person home with the spirit of Christmas tucked into their hearts.