A decade ago, a tradition started at PA that few students may know about. 

Every year during the holiday season, PA faculty and staff chooses a family in-need and donates money to assure they have a funds for the holiday.

English teacher Ms. Gelinas started the tradition with the help of Ms. Megehee, former English teacher.

For the first two years, it was done solely by the English department, and the third year, it was opened up to all faculty and staff. “We knew by doing this we could get a larger gift,” Ms. Gelinas said. 

The gift was originally a check, but now it has changed to a Walmart gift card. The family can use this card to purchase holiday presents, or a nice dinner for their family, said Ms. Gelinas.

“The hope is that it has an impact on a family who might be having some financial difficulties at the moment, who could use that to have just a nicer holiday,” said Ms. Gelinas. “It makes their holiday a little more special” 

Ms. Gelinas added it is something she loves to be a part of during the holiday season because it builds morale and promotes kindness in our community.