The fourth graders at St. James Elementary School made snow globes to bring home for the holiday break with photos of themselves featured inside. The mason jars, filled with water, glitter and a photo of each student, were created by each of the students. The fourth graders also created holiday cards to be delivered to the local nursing home to brighten the day of the residents. 

St. James Elementary School held its 11th annual “Nutcracker” performance in December. Performed by the first and second graders, under direction of Mrs. Braunreuther, the students showed off their weeks of hard work to friends and family during the dance performances.

Second graders in Mrs. Johnston’s class at St. James Elementary School are working on their literacy skills while also learning about the geography of the United States. The students have been linked up with pen pals all across the U.S. They have written letters to students in other states, filled with information about their favorite book, why it’s their favorite book and facts about their state. In turn, the students have received information from others across all 50 states, also learning about the geography, state facts and favorite books. The students worked on their map skills while also getting a chance to sample different books chosen as favorites by their pen pals.

Third grade students from St. James Elementary School learned all about their ancestry as well as the roots of the other students in their grade during Heritage Day on Nov. 22.

Beginning with a musical performance that featured samples from all around the world, the students showed off their language skills by performing tunes in other languages. They ended the musical portion of the day with “It’s A Small World” and “God Bless America,” dedicated to the veterans in the audience.

In the multipurpose room, students showed off their Heritage Day projects, featuring historical documents and information that traced back their lineage for centuries, in some cases. Students designed posters that also included a family crest. As part of the day’s event, the students went on a “scavenger hunt” around the room to find clues about different ancestry backgrounds. Back in the classrooms, the celebration continued as students and guests sampled different ethnic food prepared by each family.