Over 200 educators brought joy throughout the parish, Christmas caroling at neighborhood bus stops for families and students. The tradition was started last year by the administrators at Arlene Meraux Elementary School.
The principal of Meraux Elementary, Natalie Albers, said the event brings everyone together to spread Christmas cheer and that she was happy that all seven elementary schools participated in this year’s jolly event.
Arabi Elementary teacher Erica Svoboda said the evening was a success.
“It was such a great experience seeing our students and their parents in their neighborhoods,” she said. “The kids were so happy to see Santa and be able to sing along with us for what has been one of my favorite nights of the year.”
At one of the elementary schools, parents even prepared a hot chocolate stand for the teachers as they arrived.
Alison Schroeder is a parent of two students at Davies Elementary.
“It was an absolutely amazing memory for the children,” Schroeder said.
Maegan Dobson, a parent at Arabi Elementary School, said she appreciates what the teachers do for the kids.
“The teachers work hard enough as it is,” she said. “But to stay after school to do this was just so nice.”
Superintendent Doris Voitier applauded the schools and said their commitment to serving the students of our parish is what continues to make our school system great.
“Teaching is about reaching our children’s hearts, and there is no better time to build lasting and meaningful connections with our students and their families than the holidays,” she said. “We have some of the best educators in the state because they are willing to go above and beyond for our students both inside and outside of the classroom.”
Liz Winslow, the principal at Chalmette Elementary, said it was fun “blanketing the parish with a little Christmas cheer.”
After the event, she also offered a Christmas wish.
“One Christmas wish for our schools would be to hold on to the magic of that evening, strengthening the connection among the students, staff, parents, and community to make our schools and community stronger.”
