FOCUS: D-B Elementary celebrates Christmas and spirit of giving

Published 12:00 am Friday, December 22, 2023

DEERING — The holiday break will be starting for students in most Lawrence County schools on Thursday, with classes resuming in the new year.

At Dawson-Bryant Elementary school, students spent the last few days before the vacation performing in the school’s holiday programs.

On Monday, under direction of the school’s music teacher, Gwen Smith, second graders took part in a musical play for assembled parents in the school’s cafeteria. Third, fourth and fifth graders were set to perform their shows on Tuesday.

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In addition to the celebratory performances, the schools was also the site of another year of a successful long-running charitable effort.

Principal Monica  Mahlmeister praised first grade teacher Angie Carey for her tireless work heading up the school’s Angel Tree, which she has done for the past 18 years.

Carey said the program, which benefits students in need, has been in place for more than two decades and, this year, it helped 172 children from 61 families.

Carey said she begins work on the program in September, with teachers recommending students for the effort.

With support from local churches, the Christian Youth Association, the high school math club and others, shopping is done for the students, beginning with needs, such as clothing, and then toys are purchased from the child’s wish list.