My first graders and I would like to thank three groups of people for brightening up our week before winter break. These people are all reasons that the Oak Harbor School District is such a terrific place to work.

One of the high school choirs walked to Hillcrest and gave mini-concerts in each of the pods. It was a delight to hear such a talented group of young people sing. The singers and their director seemed to enjoy performing, even in our overcrowded and acoustically poor pod. The high school students were cheerful and polite. They were remarkable role models for my students.

Thursday afternoon, three Hillcrest teachers led a sing-a-long for the Hillcrest students. Mrs. Nowicki played the piano, Mr. Schlegel played the drums and Mr. Jennings played guitar and banjo. Students had the opportunity to sing traditional holiday songs and experience what fun it is to sing in a large group.

Our last treat was a visit from Santa. The Oak Harbor Kiwanas invited Santa to visit preschools, kindergartens and first grades in Oak Harbor. Members of the club accompanied Santa as he handed out oranges that Rudolph had picked at the North Pole. Needless to say, my first graders were ecstatic. Since I am sure that Santa reads your paper, I am attaching the thank you note that my students dictated to me.

Kathy Ridle

Hillcrest Elementary

Dear Santa,

Thank you for the oranges. You are very nice. We loved the oranges. They were yummy. Santa Claus, we liked you coming to our classroom and giving us oranges. We love you, Santa!

Mrs. Ridle’s

first graders