The short week of school during Thanksgiving week is a challenge. It is a challenge for students to remain engaged knowing that a long weekend – with family and turkey – is so very close. It is a challenge for teachers because they, too, are excited about the opportunities provided by the holiday, as well as the fact that they are the ones called upon to keep those kids engaged. As I am sure many schools are doing, we at WCCS are taking the opportunity of the short week to have combined chapels to call our attention to the Thanksgiving holiday. So, very first thing on Monday morning, the entire lower school (from the 3k to 5th grade) gathered together in Westminster Hall for their Thanksgiving chapel. I heard that this would be the first whole LS chapel of the year and was curious to see how it would go, so I snuck over to watch. BOY, am I glad that I did, as I was reminded in very vivid terms just how blessed we are to be a 3K-12 school. Allow me to explain…
After Dr. Jolly opened the chapel, the LS worship team led the school in two songs. It was a great blessing to hear so many children singing praises to our Lord and Savior! Then, Mrs. Hali Christopher, the High School Student Council Advisor (and Theater/Yearbook teacher extraordinaire) stepped to the microphone. After doing her very best to ramp up the noise and excitement level in the room, she announced that there were four high school student council members with her to lead the chapel time. As only she can, Mrs. Christopher even played a game with the lower school students as she was introducing the high schoolers. It was a sight (with lots of sounds!) to behold. Then, the students took over and the blessings multiplied!
Hannah Basha (10th grade) spoke first and talked about the connection between gratitude and joy. Carly Setzer (12th grade) shared several Bible verses with the children about gratitude. Jacob Haley (10th grade) told a story from his life about a time when he was reminded just how thankful he is for his family. Chapman Petty (9th grade) was there in support of the others and managed a “project” as a leave-behind for each classroom that was a great reminder to us all about the need to be thankful.
As a parent, I am greatly blessed by the Christian teachers/coaches/staff that speak truth into the lives of my children. There is no doubt in my mind that they have an eternal impact! But, that impact is even greater when the “big kids” speak the same truths as it further solidifies the learning. That’s exactly what happened in chapel this morning. The little kids had gratitude modeled by the big kids. And, they will never forget it! As a matter of fact, it won’t be long until those who are currently the “little kids” will be the “big kids” sharing with children who have not yet been born! WOW!