PJPII gets into the Christmas Spirit

PJPII gets into the Christmas Spirit
Posted on 12/08/2020
PJPII gets into the Christmas SpiritPJPII gets into the Christmas Spirit

Pope John Paul II School is making Christmas Spirit a priority. From their giant Christmas Tree in the foyer of the school, to the Christmas events taking place leading up to winter break, to door decorations, students and staff cannot help but feel the Christmas cheer.

Principal Tammy Bush said they feel it is especially important to spread joy, hope, and love this year.

“This year as been challenging for everyone, and although we are not able to participate in school traditions such as the parade, the White Elephant Sale, prayer services, Christmas dinner, concerts or family events, we are still thinking creatively about how to celebrate the season while ensuring the safety of everyone.” She said.

She also talked about the reactions they see in students this time of year.
“Our school has a positive buzz during the month leading up to the holidays. We are very intentional in trying to keep a balance between “just enough” and “too much”. Our educators work hard to keep a learning focus during this time in along with sprinkles of magic as we move toward the holidays. When our big tree goes up in the foyer, that is the beginning of the building excitement. We let it stay up for a few days before adding lights, and ornaments and we don’t light it up until December 1. We want our students to be able to feel the excitement of Advent as Christmas approaches while not being over stimulated. This time of year can lead to big emotions so keeping calm while celebrating the season is very important. “She explained.

According to Bush spreading Christmas cheer is an endeavour everyone in the school community embraces.

“We are fortunate to have a staff with many gifts that they share from our custodians, secretaries, and educators. We know that we can count on everyone pooling their talents to contribute in ways that most benefit our students and families. The ideas come from everyone! You never know what our team will dream up. We are lucky because of the skillsets we have in our school so the dreamers can work with the believers to ensure that ideas can come to life in a safe and fun way for everyone.” She said.

She talked about why PJPII goes all out for the holidays.

“We have so much spirit in our school as Advent and Christmas begin that it just pours out in everything we do. It is a joyful time of year and we are passionate about sharing that with our community. Our staff work tirelessly to plan and execute many ways for our students to participate in creating and sharing joy at this time of year. “She said.

The school’s dedication to spreading Christmas cheer pays off. Traditionally PJPII has participated in the Kenora Kinsman Santa Claus Parade and the school float has won an award 3 years running. Unfortunately, this year the parade will not be taking place in Kenora, but that hasn’t stopped PJPII. The school has teamed up with St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Ecole Ste. Marguerite Bourgeoys, and the Catholic Education Centre to host Candy Cane Lane.

Bush explained what that is.

“Candy Cane Lane is our way of bringing some Christmas magic to our families. In collaboration with St. Thomas Aquinas, Ecole Ste. Marguerite Bourgeoys, and the Catholic Education Centre, we will be showcasing our student’s seasonal art with an outdoor display of lights and decorations. We will be working together to light up the pathway through the Catholic Campus for families to visit and tour through over 3 evenings. We will have hot chocolate and treats to enjoy outdoors during the evenings that the event is taking place.” She said.

“Families can come and park at the CEC/SMB lots where the pathway begins. They are invited to walk the path and visit the displays in a safe and socially distanced manner. Families are requested to wear masks and to ensure distance when visiting. The path will be “one way” moving from top to bottom and then visitors will be directed back to their cars by following the loop. We are excited to share the joy of the season in this new way with our families. “She explained.

Candy Cane Lane will be taking place from 4:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday December 15, Wednesday December 16, and Thursday December 17.
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