Encouraging teachers to blend holiday spirit with meaningful instruction keeps learning fresh and engaging. A science experiment with a “winter wonderland” theme, a reading activity tied to kindness or gratitude, or a math challenge based on seasonal traditions these small touches remind students that learning and joy can coexist.
At Groves Primary, our teachers are creative in finding ways to make lessons both rigorous and festive. During the “12 Days of Christmas,” for example, each day offers a simple, fun activity that aligns with learning goals from practicing sight words through a holiday scavenger hunt to writing persuasive letters to Santa. Activities like these spark curiosity and help students see that school is a place where learning and laughter belong together.
At Port Neches Intermediate, our December learning comes alive with a schoolwide, cross-curricular project centered around the book The Night Before Winter. Every grade level dives into activities that connect the story to their content areas: 3rd graders analyze character and setting in language arts while creating winter-themed art projects, 4th graders explore measurement and data through math challenges inspired by the book, and 5th graders investigate scientific concepts such as temperature and states of matter referenced in the story. Together, students participate in collaborative activities like designing “winter wonderland” displays, writing seasonal reflections, and solving real-world problems tied to the book’s themes. This campuswide approach not only reinforces rigorous academic skills but also builds a shared sense of excitement and joy across all grades, showing that learning can be both meaningful and festive.
Additional ideas to blend fun and academics:
- Themed Writing: Letters to Santa or the Grinch focused on persuasive writing.
- Festive Math: Measurement and estimation through baking or gift-wrapping activities.
- Science Connections: Explore weather changes or “snow” reactions using simple chemistry.
- Acts of Kindness Challenge: Integrate SEL by focusing on giving, gratitude, and empathy.
When teachers feel empowered to connect content to the season, students remain engaged, and engagement is the foundation for learning that lasts.
Bringing the Holiday Spirit to Life
At Groves Primary, the holidays bring a sense of warmth and connection that can be felt in every hallway. Our teachers go all out to bring the joy of the season to life. On certain mornings, staff members greet students dressed as reindeer, elves, gingerbread girls, or snowmen. Students light up when they see their teachers in costume and those moments of shared laughter set a positive tone for the day.
We also host a Christmas dress-up calendar for staff and students. Each day has a theme, from “Santa Hat Day” to “Flannel Friday,” and it quickly becomes something everyone looks forward to. The building feels alive with spirit and togetherness.
Another favorite tradition is when high school and middle school choir students visit our campus to sing Christmas carols in the hallways. The music fills the building, creating a festive atmosphere that connects our district vertically which reminds younger students of what’s ahead and older students of where their journey began.
Even the morning drop-off becomes a celebration. Teachers bring their own Christmas inflatables to greet students at arrival, and we’ve even had friendly “inflatable races” to add a touch of humor and fun. These small, joyful traditions don’t detract from learning; they enhance it by fostering belonging, community, and excitement.
At Port Neches Intermediate, PE teachers find ways to keep students active despite the colder weather. They host themed runs like the “Turkey Trot” in November and the “Jingle Jog” in December. These outdoor activities help students channel their energy and enthusiasm, promoting wellness while reinforcing school spirit.
Holiday campus traditions that work:
- Festive dress-up calendars for staff and students
- Choir caroling from older students
- Themed fun runs like “Turkey Trot” and “Jingle Jog”
- Inflatable greetings or playful staff competitions
- Spirit days that connect fun with school pride
These activities aren’t just for entertainment, they are community-building tools that strengthen relationships and morale for everyone.
Kimberly Carter is principal of Port Neches Intermediate where she is dedicated to cultivating a strong, positive campus culture rooted in servant leadership.
Mandie Champagne is principal of Groves Intermediate School where she leads with a passion for student success and a strong commitment to fostering a supportive and collaborative school culture.
Prior to becoming the principal of Groves Primary School, Angela Lewis served as an assistant principal, where she played an instrumental role in launching a new intermediate campus for her district.
Kelsey Thibodeaux is a third-year assistant principal with a strong background in arts education and student-centered leadership.
