The holiday season offers a wonderful opportunity to express gratitude and share kindness with those around us, said Cypress Schools Supt. Anne Silavs in her holiday greeting.
“Acts of generosity and compassion are always meaningful, but they feel especially impactful during this time of year. In this edition of our e-Newsletter, we invite you to discover how students across our district are embracing the spirit of the season by helping others in heartfelt ways,” she said.
Her message included a report from the various schools within the district which are included below:
A.E. Arnold Elementary School
The gift of togetherness
Family Game Night—a fun-filled event that brought the school community closer together. It featured an assortment of engaging activities and games as well as delicious snacks to keep the energy levels high. The multipurpose room buzzed with laughter and friendly competition as families gathered to share their love for games and connect with one another. It was an evening to foster friendships and strengthen bonds within the school community. It was also a reminder of the joy that comes from simply spending time together… the best gift of all!
Clara J. King Elementary School
Celebrating World Kindness Day
Above, King Elementary School celebrated World Kindness Day.
To welcome the winter season and highlight the theme of giving during the holidays, the King PTA created a meaningful and engaging celebration for World Kindness Day, which was celebrated worldwide on November 13. Students were recognized with kindness tickets during the day to acknowledge positive behavior. They also purchased winter-themed kindness bags to give to others and spread goodwill. These activities help to build a caring school environment and teach students the value of small acts of kindness, especially during a season of giving.
Margaret Landell Elementary School
Student Council Thanksgiving Food Drive
In November, the Landell Student Council organized a heartwarming Thanksgiving Food Drive in partnership with We Care, an organization that serves families and individuals in need across Cypress, Seal Beach, and Los Alamitos. Participation from the Landell community was extraordinary. Thanks to the collective efforts of students, families, and staff, 2,644 food items were collected! These donations helped We Care staff to create holiday meal baskets, ensuring local families could celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with joy and abundance.
Steve Luther Elementary School
Thankful for Kindergarten Buddies
Fourth and fifth graders at Luther look forward to weekly visits with their kindergarten buddies. During these visits, the older students assist the kindergartners with academic tasks and special projects. This fall, fourth and fifth graders helped their little buddies create Thinking Maps about their favorite autumn activities. They also assisted them with holiday-themed art projects, including the creation of a thankfulness chain that became the centerpiece for the kindergarten Thanksgiving feast this year. Through these experiences, students learn that helping others is a gift that benefits everyone involved!
Juliet Morris Elementary School
Student Teamwork Makes an IMPACT
In November, students in the IMPACT program united for a heartwarming initiative, “Paws for Cause.” Their mission? To support animals in need through thoughtful action and community engagement. The team worked tirelessly, designing creative flyers and posters to encourage donations of pet food, blankets, toys, and other essential supplies. Their efforts inspired an incredible outpouring of generosity from the school community, reflecting what can be accomplished when everyone works together. Items collected will bring comfort and care to animals in need, helping to improve their lives while they wait for their forever homes.
Frank Vessels Elementary School
Student Council Gives Back
Student Council ushered in the holiday spirit with a heartwarming initiative to support the local community. They collected much-needed supplies for children in the Orangewood Youth Shelter, including nonperishable food, hygiene products, and gift cards. This philanthropic project reflects the Student Council’s commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. By supporting other children in need, these
young leaders not only helped to provide essential resources but also to spread a message of compassion and generosity during the holiday season.