Head of School Letter: A Special Holiday Tradition

In December, there are many traditions that make this time of year so special. Whether religious or secular, family or community, traditions and rituals are important to children. They are comforting markers of special events. Our students eagerly anticipate Shorecrest traditions and look back on them as some of their most treasured Charger memories.  

One of Shorecrest’s most cherished traditions shines brightly during this season: the Holiday Gift Drive. For over 30 years, the Holiday Gift Drive has stood as a hallmark of Shorecrest’s commitment to service, bringing our community together in the spirit of generosity and care. Sponsored by SCA, the Shorecrest community partners with Hero to a Child (formerly the Pinellas/Pasco Guardian ad Litem Foundation), an organization dedicated to advocating for and supporting abused, abandoned, and neglected children in the Guardian ad Litem Program of Pinellas and Pasco Counties.

The Holiday Gift Drive began this week with students bringing unwrapped gifts to their classrooms. All around campus there are cheerful large boxes cloaked in festive holiday wrapping paper, where community members may also drop off gifts. This meaningful tradition will culminate on Friday, December 13, when groups of students will deliver the hundreds of collected presents to the Athletic Center. There, dedicated volunteers will carefully organize the gifts that will brighten the holidays for so many children. On Saturday, December 14, the Guardian ad Litem volunteer child advocates will pick up the gifts, ensuring they are delivered to the children who need them most.

In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, we recognize that some families within our own Shorecrest community have faced significant challenges and may still be struggling. We’ve been inspired by the generosity of so many who have stepped forward to help. This year, as we continue the tradition of the Holiday Gift Drive, we’ve been especially mindful of the increased needs within our community. To balance this sensitivity with our ongoing commitment to supporting the most at-risk and vulnerable children in our area, Shorecrest and Hero to a Child collaborated to adjust our approach, while still ensuring that the tradition remains impactful and sustainable. Even with these adjustments, we are thrilled to share that we will be bringing holiday magic to over 240 children!

The Holiday Gift Drive is Shorecrest’s longest continual service project. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributes their time, energy, and generosity to this remarkable tradition. The unwavering kindness and dedication demonstrated by members of this community elevates this event beyond a simple school activity. It has become a shining example of Shorecrest’s compassion and community spirit. 

Our shared hope is to continue fostering the spirit of giving, ensuring that this holiday season is truly unforgettable for all those children whom we have the honor to support. Thank you for making a meaningful difference.

All the best, 
Nancy