UPDATE: Greenville High School students enjoyed a festive holiday dinner on December 9, 2023, serving over 1,100 students a traditional meal featuring glazed maple carrots, roasted ham, and mashed potatoes. This annual event, organized by the school district’s food and nutrition department, aims to ensure every student experiences the joy of a holiday feast, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.
The goal of Food and Nutrition Director Dan Kuk was clear: provide a delicious meal to students who might otherwise miss out on such experiences. “This is our take on a holiday dinner, and it’s a tradition we’ve had for years,” Kuk stated. “Not all of our students get to participate in this type of meal.”
With many students relying on free or reduced lunch programs, the district funded the holiday dinner at no cost to attendees. Kuk emphasized the importance of this tradition, stating, “We work with the district to fund this meal for our students.”
The event also included assistance from DECA students, who helped set up and serve dessert. Senior and DECA vice president Emily Fox highlighted the significance of this volunteer work, saying, “Doing this means a lot because we are able to provide for everybody, while showing them what DECA is about.”
The festive atmosphere was enhanced by the presence of Claude Johnson, a GHS employee and city councilman, who dressed as “Santa Claude” alongside the Grinch, bringing smiles and holiday cheer to students as they enjoyed their meals. Sophomores Gabby Pelak and Kendal Taylor expressed their delight, with Taylor noting, “It’s really nice and it makes me feel festive.”
As students dined, they were treated to special desserts like homemade apple crumble and cherry turnovers, crafted by DECA volunteers. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with Pelak adding, “It was also nice to have something to look forward to at lunch.”
Teachers and staff praised the students for their patience during the busy lunch periods, as they navigated the lunch line with respect. “It’s a lot of students to get through, but they are so patient — they know it’s a special event,” Kuk remarked.
This year’s holiday dinner not only filled bellies but also fostered a sense of community and celebration among students. The collaborative efforts of the food and nutrition staff, DECA students, and the support from the school district ensured that this beloved tradition continues to thrive, making a significant impact on the student body as they come together to enjoy the spirit of the season.
As the school year continues, many will be looking forward to more opportunities for community engagement and support, reinforcing the importance of inclusivity and joy during the holiday season.
