High School Celebrates Holiday Spirit with Events and Fundraisers
The recent weeks at various high schools have been marked by a festive spirit, with students engaging in numerous activities that blend community service and holiday celebrations. Notable events included performances, fundraisers, and themed dress-up days, reflecting student involvement and school camaraderie.
Celebrating Through Music and Arts
At the City Center, the rock band, directed by Mike Ingram, held its end-of-semester performance, showcasing a unique blend of rock with instruments like a saxophone and accordion. The band’s repertoire included hits such as “Spiderwebs” by No Doubt and “Holiday” by Green Day. Local musician Anika Emily opened the show, setting a vibrant tone for the event. This performance marked the band’s last for the semester, with the next scheduled for the spring.
Adding to the artistic endeavors, students from the family, career, and community leaders of America participated in a Hat, Mitten, and Scarf Drive, alongside other holiday initiatives. On December 11, 2025, art students visited elementary schools to assist younger children in making Christmas ornaments, enhancing community ties and fostering creativity.
Community and Holiday Spirit Initiatives
Community engagement was a significant theme this holiday season. The student-led club, Rider Nation, spread cheer by wrapping teachers’ doors in festive paper. Additionally, the Future Farmers of America (FFA) hosted a Greenhand Quizbowl and Trivia Night, which allowed first-year members to engage in competitive learning while strengthening connections among all FFA members.
As part of their community outreach, the culinary arts students prepared meals for a charity event, where attendees could purchase ceramic bowls created by visual arts students. Proceeds from this event benefited the Eastern Illinois Food Bank, demonstrating a commitment to supporting local families in need.
LeRoy High School initiated several fundraisers leading up to the holidays. Admission to a girls’ basketball game was traded for either a monetary donation or non-perishable food items for the local Kiwanis Food Bank. The school also organized a Pancake Lunch fundraiser, further contributing to community welfare.
Students embraced the holiday spirit through themed dress-up days, such as “Pajama Day” and “Holiday Card Day.” The culmination of these festivities was the Holiday Hoopla event, where competitions, games, and performances fostered school spirit across grades six through twelve.
Empowerment and Generosity
In a collaborative effort, the Young Women Empowerment and Young Men Empowerment groups organized a blanket drive, successfully collecting over 40 blankets for the Danville Rescue Men’s Overnight Shelter. This initiative highlighted the students’ commitment to supporting those less fortunate in their community.
Seniors from the high school took to the streets, caroling in the cold to spread holiday cheer while raising money for a senior trip. This effort not only entertained but also strengthened community bonds, as they visited various local establishments and homes.
The student council, under the guidance of Abby Redenius, hosted a Secret Santa event, allowing students to connect with teachers through thoughtful gift-giving. A festive breakfast marked the end of this initiative, with students revealing their partnered teachers and exchanging final gifts.
As the holiday season approaches, these activities have not only provided joy and entertainment but also reinforced the importance of community involvement and support. The collective efforts of students, teachers, and community members exemplify a spirit of generosity and celebration that will resonate well into the New Year.
