Holiday-themed class parties are definitely some of the most exciting parts of being in elementary school, but as students grow up there seem to be fewer class parties. While some may see such events as a waste of school time and unnecessary, class parties bring in holiday spirit, help the class bond, and add a little fun to a student’s stressful schedule. If we were to bring back having hot chocolate, eating popcorn, and watching nostalgic movies like “Polar Express” in our pajamas, coming to school before winter break would be much more fun and give high schooler’s a much needed break before exams.

All of the tests and exams that come with the end of the semester bring a lot of added stress. If schools had a Holiday movie day or pajama day to look forward to, it might help students stay motivated to get through each school day. Being in school so close to the holidays makes it hard to want to stay at school each day, and bringing back some excitement could add some motivation. Other than simply watching a holiday movie before break, everyone could possibly bring in some type of festive treat, or perhaps classes could even host little events such as secret santa parties.

With all the busyness that comes at the end of the school year, it can be difficult to have time for a holiday party. But, if teachers and students are productive and plan effectively, time can be made for a small class party that can bring up student morale. Some of the best memories students make over the years can be linked to holiday festivities. Once you get to high school, the holidays seem to get less and less exciting. If schools were to bring more holiday spirit into the schools it could ease student stress and add some fun to the school environment.

The few teachers who do still have holiday class parties have to spend their own money. Teachers do not get paid much as is, as the average salary of public school teachers in Mississippi is $52,041 per year according to Mississippi First. This is a large reason as to why many teachers choose not to have class parties, as they do not want to spend personal money on such an event. If the school provided teachers with reasonable funds for at least one class party a year, it would allow more teachers the flexibility to have fun, holiday parties without digging into their paycheck.

Having something the students can look forward to at the end of the week would help boost attendence and performance on assignments. Watching “The Polar Express” having a small gift exchange, or everyone pitching in to bring food could be a fun end of the semester celebration for students and teachers.