Holiday cheer abounds at Scarselli Elementary

The staff at Scarselli Elementary School spread some cheer to students on the last day before winter vacation. Groups of teachers from each grade level, along with office and support staff, put on a special holiday skit to help celebrate the season.

Master of ceremonies was the "Holiday Wizard," also known as principal Brandon Swain. He appeared between each act with his wand and crystal ball to predict who might appear next. Children helped his efforts by chorusing "I've been good!" which enabled him to see more clearly into his crystal ball.

The first skit was performed by the specialists at the school. They danced and pantomimed to the hit "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas." The first-grade teachers followed with a rendition of Alvin and the Chipmunk's "Christmas Song," complete with an impressive array of hula hoop skills.

The second-grade teachers donned antlers to perform the "Reindeer Revolt," picketing to protest unfair labor practices on behalf of Santa's dependable herd. Third-grade teachers belted out the Drifters' "White Christmas," and danced in a unique chorus line.

According to their act, fourth-grade teachers are getting "Nuttin' for Christmas." Their skit included spilling ink on the rug and placing a tack on teacher's chair. Fifth- and sixth-grade teachers got plenty of laughs for their rendition of "Misfits," from the Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer soundtrack.

Aides at the school dressed up as a Christmas tree and presents, to perform "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree," and the office staff got the audience going with their Australian version of "The 12 Days of Christmas."

The special guest at the event was Gladys Knight (played with finesse by teacher Jerry Van Sickle) who sang "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town," complete with hip dance moves and a trio of backup singers. Students and staff had a blast, and it was a terrific way to kick off the holiday break.

This was a bittersweet skit for several teachers, as it was their last holiday performance before retiring at the end of this school year. Congratulations to: Jerry Van Sickle, fifth grade, following a 28-year career; Cissy Tucker, second grade, 29 years; Maria Martin, school secretary, 23 years; Carla Patterson, first grade, 23 years; and Melinda Lewandowski, resource teacher, 22 years. Thank you for your commitment, professionalism and dedication to the education of the children of Douglas County.

May the New Year bring peace, hope and joy to us all.

n Amy Roby can be reached by e-mail at RanchosRoundup@hotmail.com