Teachers and students are not to criticize parents or families for their private choices regarding holidays. Likewise, parents may not impose or promote their views on specific holidays to other students by snacks, gifts, or other materials distributed to students in the classroom. Class parties are not mandatory and are always subject to the discretion of the teacher and headmaster.
Halloween – Geneva does not celebrate Halloween. Parents may not send their student to school dressed in a costume or send candy or other Halloween related items.
Thanksgiving – Each Grammar School class may celebrate the time for giving thanks with a finger-food lunch provided by class parents. Teachers plan a writing or art activity that expresses a student’s thankfulness to God.
Christmas – The Geneva community rejoices and gives thanks in the incarnation of Christ during the Christmas season, as we should throughout the year. Each class may have a party. The school also celebrates with a school-wide program listed on the school calendar.
Easter – As with Christmas, it is appropriate to remember an aspect of God’s grace during a special time of the year. Therefore, during Easter season, the truths of Jesus’ death and resurrection for the salvation of His people are taught. The school celebrates as a community with a traditional Flowering of the Cross assembly during Holy Week. We observe Good Friday and Easter Monday as school holidays.
St. Valentine’s Day – St. Valentine’s Day is acknowledged and celebrated with Valentine’s cards and class parties. While this is a secular celebration, the school chooses to emphasize the love that Christ commands all Christians to have for one another.
Room Moms should consult with the teachers and each other prior to planning any party. Classes do not have to have identical parties, but an effort should be made to create a reasonable parity among the classes.