The Christmas season is a time to share joy-filled moments with friends and family, a time when we come together as a community to reflect on the true reason for the season. It is not the presents, food, or break from school that make Christmas special, but the celebration of our Messiah’s birth. While today’s world often focuses on the more worldly aspects of the holiday, we are reminded to turn our attention to the arrival of our King.
At NCAI, the staff and parent volunteers go above and beyond to help us maintain a Christ-centered mindset amid the hustle and bustle of the season. With countless to-do lists and gifts to wrap, it’s easy to get distracted. That’s why we encourage you and your family to take time to participate in the events and opportunities we offer. Christmas is a season filled with joy, and at NCAI, there is never a dull moment.
One of the biggest events of the season is the Elementary Christmas Presentation, which showcases the hard work and dedication of 166 students, 30-40 teachers and staff, and 5-7 parents. This year, the performance is titled “On Our Way to Bethlehem”, a timeless story that reminds us of the humble beginnings of our Savior. Families, staff, and the entire community are warmly invited to join us in welcoming the season together. This story is one that resonates with all ages, and we know you’ll enjoy it. The date is Friday, December 13 at 6:00 PM, Elementary students should arrive at 5:30 PM in their classrooms. Admission is Free, and Christmas treats will be available for purchase after the show to support the Elementary Student Council.
Another favorite tradition is the Candy Grams, where you can send bags of candy to friends and loved ones within the school. These delightful treats include Hershey’s, candy canes, mints, assorted chocolates, Tootsie Rolls, Mars Minis, Pingüinos, and more. We encourage everyone to participate and spread joy through this thoughtful gesture. As Jenner Martinez, President of the Student Council, shares: “This event is important for our community as it spreads a spirit of kindness and generosity, allowing us to connect with one another and spread joy during the holiday season. Apart from the candy, it’s the smiles and excitement of receiving a candy gram that make it so special. As we celebrate the season of giving, it’s also a reminder of God’s love for us. In 1 John 4:19, it says, ‘We love because He first loved us.’ This verse encourages us to share that love with others, just as we do through our candy grams.” Announcements will be made soon about when Candy Gram tickets will be available for purchase.
Lastly, Christmas is a time of giving, and NCAI embraces this by providing gift baskets to our non-instructional staff members. Each secondary homeroom and elementary class participates, making this gesture a personal and meaningful experience. The administration hopes this tradition helps students recognize the value of every individual, created in God’s image, and appreciate the critical role every staff member plays in the NCAI family and the body of Christ.
This act of giving not only blesses our staff but also gives students the chance to connect with them on a deeper level. As some students have expressed a desire to know staff members more personally, this tradition provides a wonderful opportunity to foster those connections.
As we count down the days to Christmas, let’s celebrate together and embrace the true spirit of the season. Merry Christmas from all of us at NCAI!
