Photos, music, candy and charity ring in the holidays

New York winters may bring frig temperatures, rain, wind and snow, but the holiday spirits at Lawrence High school are more than enough to keep everyone warm and toasty. With a multitude of festivities throughout the two weeks of school before the holiday break, Lawrence High students and faculty surely close out the year in the best way possible.

The festivities began Dec. 13 and 14, with a holiday photo booth, where students and staff could take beautiful photos and could choose creating a Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or New Year’s card. The booth was fully equipped with Santa Claus and elf hats, reindeer ears, candy canes and other props. This festive and incredibly fun event was orchestrated by the school’s Dance Honor Society, under the leadership of dance instructor Laila Sales.

The holiday cheer continued into the final week before winter recess. The mornings of Dec. 17 to 21, included a variety of performances by the Lawrence Music Department. Each morning before the school day began a different group performed in the main lobby. As students, staff and administrators entered the building they were welcomed with the sweet sounds of holiday music to start off their day.

Performing groups included the orchestra under the direction of Terrence Batts. The Band was led by Brian Stabile, and the chorus directed by Thomas Riley. Band teacher Brian Stabile also does a special solo performance accompanied only by the melodious sounds of piano. Such performances draw large crowds, with pieces such as “Feliz Navidad,” “Carol of the Bells,” “Sounds of Hanukkah” and more, reflecting the diverse school community where there is always a song for everyone.

At Lawrence High School the holidays are extra sweet with candy sales by members of the National Honor Society. Goodie bags with chocolate kisses, candy canes, and peppermints were sold on Dec. 17, before school and during all lunch periods. Students and faculty have the option of purchasing a bag and taking it then and there or filling out an order form with the intended recipient’s name for it to be delivered to them.

The school’s teachers and students wholeheartedly enjoy the lighthearted times the holidays bring, but we never forget to take the time out for those who less fortunate than us. Lawrence High School in conjunction with Maria’s Toys for Tots collected toys to provide children with the happiness they deserve during such a merry time of year.

Though Lawrence High students may not celebrate the same holidays or have the same traditions, the holiday time does draw students and faculty closer together in a celebration of diversity, life and one another. Holidays at the school are truly a time like no other.