Greenville High Hosts Festive Holiday Dinner for 1,100 Students

UPDATE: Greenville High School students were treated to a heartwarming holiday dinner on December 9, serving 1,100 students a traditional feast of glazed maple carrots, mashed potatoes, and freshly roasted ham. This annual event, organized by the school’s food and nutrition department, aims to ensure that every student, regardless of background, can enjoy a festive meal during the holiday season.

The initiative reflects a commitment to inclusivity, addressing the needs of students from various socio-economic backgrounds. As Greenville Food and Nutrition Director Dan Kuk emphasized, “Not all of them get to participate in this type of meal,” making this event a vital source of holiday cheer for many who may not have access to such experiences at home.

The holiday dinner is provided at no cost to students, reinforcing the district’s dedication to free and reduced meals. Kuk stated, “It’s a little bit of an added expense, but the school district helps out with that.” After successfully serving a smaller version of the holiday meal at the middle school, Kuk praised his staff for their effort in delivering this special experience.

With a tight schedule during two lunch periods, the team ensured smooth service while maintaining a festive atmosphere. “It’s a lot of students to get through, but they are so patient — they know it’s a special event,” Kuk noted. The event was enhanced with Christmas music and decorations crafted by DECA students, creating a joyful environment for all.

Emily Fox, an 18-year-old senior and DECA vice president, highlighted the organization’s role in making the event run smoothly. “We’ve had a lot of volunteers putting everything up, making sure everything is clean in between,” she said. DECA members also served homemade desserts, including apple crumble and cherry turnovers, showcasing their commitment to community service.

As students savored their meals, they were surprised by a visit from Claude Johnson, a GHS employee and city councilman, who donned a festive outfit as “Santa Claude.” The presence of characters like The Grinch added to the excitement, making the day even more memorable for students.

Sophomores Gabby Pelak and Kendal Taylor expressed their joy, with Taylor stating, “It’s really nice and it makes me feel festive.” Pelak added, “It was also nice to have something to look forward to at lunch.”

This annual holiday dinner not only nourishes students physically but also fosters a sense of community and belonging within the school. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of coming together to celebrate, especially during the holiday season.

With the success of this year’s dinner, all eyes are on future events that will continue to bring joy and unity to the students of Greenville High School. Stay tuned for more updates on community initiatives aimed at enhancing student experiences.