During the month of December, Holmes Elementary School fourth-grade students enjoyed tasting a variety of green vegetables during physical education class. Among them were green beans, sugar snap peas, and snow peas, and students had the chance to vote for their favorite, all as part of the Independent Health Fitness for Kids Challenge.

Students also had the opportunity to be part of the Canisius College Kids Program with two Division I hockey players from Canisius visiting Mrs. McPartland’s and Mrs. Cefaratti’s first-grade classes to read to students. The visit was organized by PE teacher Christina Zona, and Holmes Elementary is able to earn free tickets to sporting events for its students through the program.

Before the start of winter recess, all students and staff came together for a holiday sing-along in the auditorium on Dec. 21. Students who had “stepped it up” by being leaders, making good choices, and demonstrating excellent character in the school earned Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer certificates. Some of those students were selected to come up to the stage and select a prize of their choice. Staff joined in on the fun, celebrating in their pajamas.