Holiday Convocation: In The Spirit!

Miles and Nolan Bleiberg shared the story of Hanukkah with the student body.

Dr. Larry McLemore with Santa and his elves.

by: Kendal Wright, Student Ambassador

Every year before winter break Saint James comes together to celebrate the upcoming festivities through our Holiday Convocation. For the high school and middle school students, this time is meant to ease stress before exams and allow us to spend time with our peers one last time before testing and break. For the elementary, convocation allows these students to spend time with the older grades and experience and participate in our school’s traditions. Everyone comes dressed in their best holiday attire, filling the gym with Christmas sweaters and Santa hats. This year, Dr. McLemore kicked off the assembly with a speech and wished everyone good luck on their exams.

Then, Mr. Clinton came to the podium dressed as the Pink Nightmare from the movie The Christmas Story. His appearances included iconic scenes from the movie such as the leg lamp and a message from Little Orphan Annie. He introduced the school choir that provided the music while elementary students performed a dance. After, high school choir students led everyone in singing songs like Jingle Bells, We Wish You A Merry Christmas, and Oh Christmas Tree. Then, students from the elementary, middle, and high schools gave speeches about the meaning of Christmas and Hanukkah and how these important holidays have impacted them. They told the story of Christmas and talked about their favorite memories and traditions. The story of Hanukkah was told by two middle school students who shared their traditions by passing out bags of chocolate coins. After hearing about the meaning of these holidays, Saint James received a surprise visit from Santa. He brought his elves to help pass out candy to all the students. Holiday Convocation ended with each grade singing part of the song The Twelve Days of Christmas, based on grade. This is likely most of the students' favorite holiday tradition because it allows each grade to participate and get into the holiday spirit. Convocation is a time that all students will remember as they grow up and continue their lives outside of Saint James. It’s a time that not only lets us forget about classwork for a little while but also brings us together as a school. It encourages camaraderie between the students and faculty that defines the environment at Saint James. We are creating traditions and friendships that will last a lifetime through an experience unique to our school. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!