HOULTON, Maine — It was the best time of the year at Houlton Elementary School during the days leading up to the Christmas break.
It was a time when students could do some holiday shopping to surprise their parents and other members of their family.
Through the support of the Parent-Teacher Organization and Principal Candace Crane, items are bought throughout the year at discounted prices to build up the inventory at the school’s “Holiday Store.” Students bring in money from home so they can select that special gift for their parents, grandparents or siblings.
Students are encouraged to do some jobs at home to earn money to spend. Even if students aren’t able to come with money, they are still able to select some gifts by the generous support of the staff, friends or those who drop by with a monetary gift.
Two days are traditionally set aside the last week of school before Christmas to shop. At this time many volunteers from the community and students in the Houlton High School program, Jobs for Maine Grads converge to the hallway of the school to wrap the gifts.
(Photos courtesy of Karen Donato)
