by During the holiday season, it’s easy to focus on lights, gifts, and festive decorations—but for the Tri-M members at James Buchanan High School, the true spirit of Christmas lies in giving back.
Each year, members of this music honor society participate in a heartwarming project with kindergarten classes at Appomattox Elementary School, using the beloved Elf on the Shelf tradition to bring joy and encouragement to young students.
The initiative was originally started by Band Director and Tri-M advisor, Mrs. Sheryl Deike, whose daughter, Rebecca O’Brien, teaches kindergarten at Appomattox. Deike explained, “Our family took on her class—we wrote letters to the kids, stayed in contact, and even followed their progress throughout the year.”
Wanting to expand the reach, Mrs. Deike presented the idea to the Tri-M club, which now sponsors two kindergarten classrooms. This year, 27 student members each “adopted” a child and created personalized experiences through handwritten letters and gift bags.
What makes this project truly magical is that the letters are written from the perspective of the children’s Elf, affectionately named Chippy. These notes, filled with positive messages and encouragement, were sent out on December 12. Shortly after, goodie bags containing crayons, pencils, erasers, coloring books, and snacks were delivered between December 15 and 22.
“She [Rebecca O’Brien] said she just sat and cried reading the letters,” Deike recalled. “The way the children responded was incredible. What’s even more touching is how perfectly matched the letters were to the children’s lives—without our students even knowing their individual stories.”
Kierstyn Martin, a senior and the club’s president, emphasized the importance of timing and preparation. “We should get the names of the kids sooner so we have more time to work on it,” she said. Martin hopes future members will continue to grow the project and bring even more joy to the children.
Though the Tri-M members may not know each student’s personal background, their goal remains the same: to bring a little holiday magic and encouragement into each child’s life.
At its core, this project is about more than just gifts—it’s about connection, kindness, and the powerful impact a simple gesture can have during the most wonderful time of the year.
