After a week filled with dress-up days, lunchtime activities, and fun, AGHS leadership concluded their winter spirit week with the third annual Winter Spectacular—consisting of holiday-themed games, food, real snow, fire pits, and a guest appearance from Santa Claus.
“[We put on this event] to show the community our holiday spirit and our heart for service,” Activities Director Shannon Hurtado said.
In preparation for the event, fresh snow was delivered to campus. In search of snowball warriors, AGHS students set off to local elementary schools to invite children to the Winter Spectacular.
“We also go to the elementary schools,” Hurtado said. “Our students go [as] Santa, elves, and gingerbread[men], and invite everybody.”
Multiple clubs joined together to help make this event successful.
“It takes about a month and a half to organize three leadership classes, working with club presidents, [and] the culinary and music department,” Hurtado said.
The result of these efforts was overwhelmingly positive.
“The effect on the community is it allows a bunch of the elementary school kids to come together and spread the cheer,” Kendall Loughead (‘26) said.
Students and families who attended the event engaged in snowball fights, winter-themed games, and could tell Santa Claus their Christmas wishes. In addition, clubs that participated were given the opportunity to educate the community on their club activities.
“[My favorite part is] the snowball fight and the carolers,” parent Jon Machado said.
Whether it be the one playing the game, or the one broadcasting the game, joy was spread throughout.
“My favorite part is seeing all the kids come with their families and enjoying all the activities we’ve brought for them,” Mia Mendoza (‘26) said.
The many hours that went into organizing this event were made worthwhile for Hurtado when she finally saw the event come together.
“I love watching my students interact with young children, and I’m impressed with their patience,” Hurtado said.
This event brought together the community by opening a space for a diverse group of community members. Participants contributed in different ways, however, they held the common goal of spreading the holiday spirit and joy to the local community.
