Before winter recess arrives, Poughkeepsie City School District schools are preparing to put students in the holiday spirit with a slew of unique events.
In addition to daily “spirit week” activities during the school day, many buildings are planning varied after-school parties for families to join in the fun.
Spirit Week events vary from day to day and building to building. Whereas Monday is designated the “Festival of Lights” day at the high school, in which students are encouraged to dress in bright colors to represent the candles and principles of Hanukah and Kwanza, Smith students on Tuesday are encouraged to dress like a candy cane and Truth students on Wednesday are supposed to dress like a favorite holiday character. Of course, most schools include a pajama day and an ugly sweater day.
At Poughkeepsie Middle School, in addition to its Spirit Week activities, a winter music concert is scheduled for Thursday at 6 p.m. in the auditorium. The school is also planning a tree lighting and an ornament making activity as a reward incentive for those who have had perfect attendance.
At Truth on Wednesday, Dec. 17, many students will take part in a gingerbread house making activity in which families are invited to join in. Later that night the school will enjoy its Winter Wonderland party, beginning at 5:30 p.m., featuring free dinner, treats and sweets; live entertainment, a cookie swap, gifts and holiday baskets.
Clinton on Dec. 17 will have a full night of activities, beginning with a chorus concert and art exhibition at 5 p.m. Then at 6 p.m. the Winter Soiree promises to include food, music craft stations, a photobooth and even a hot chocolate bar.
During the school day Dec. 17 Smith students will celebrate “Polar Express” day. Each grade will watch the movie, receive a sweet treat and a cup of hot chocolate. The atmosphere will be punctuated by a winter wonderland display that includes train cars. Then on Thursday, Smith students will enjoy a gingerbread making activity.
Thursday evening, Dec. 18, will include Warring’s annual Winter Wonderland party and a new event at Krieger, Snacks with Santa. Students will get to enjoy cookies and cocoa, fun activities and, of course, take a picture with the man in red, himself.
Of course, all school events are open only to students, their families and staff.
A half-day on Friday, Dec. 19, will then kick off a winter recess that will stretch into the new year.