At Paul VI, the season of giving is more than a beloved tradition; it’s a reflection of the school’s deep-rooted commitment to service, community and education. For nearly 25 years, its students have proudly partnered with the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program, collecting and donating gifts to bring joy to children in need. This year, alongside this school-wide toy drive, the Paul VI football team led a special donation effort for students at Holy Name School. Together, these initiatives resulted in nearly 500 toys donated, an inspiring display of generosity that captures the true spirit of Christmas.

 

For the fourth consecutive year, the Paul VI community united for its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, held just outside the school’s front doors. The evening began with a reverent blessing of the Nativity scene, followed by an enthusiastic countdown that lit up the school with festive lights. Students, families and faculty were welcome to join the celebration, enjoying hot cocoa, traditional Christmas carols and a visit from Santa Claus himself, all underscoring the spirit of togetherness that defines this special event.

 

The spirit of the season extends into Paul VI’s classrooms as well, where teachers integrate holiday traditions into meaningful academic experiences. In Mrs. Cardillo’s Italian IV class, for example, students embraced language and culture by composing “letters to Santa” in Italian, articulating the Christmas wish they want the most, refining vocabulary and grammatical precision. Through activities such as these, Paul VI students experience education that nourishes both intellect and heart, reflecting the true essence of the holidays.

 

Each year, the school community comes together for a morning filled with festive fun as they film Paul VI’s annual Christmas video. This year’s story follows the Student Council on a mission to uncover the secret identity of the Paul VI Eagle, who turns out to be none other than Santa. After a spirited chase through the halls, the Student Council returns the Eagle costume to Santa just in time for the school to celebrate with a pep rally. You can watch this year’s video, and revisit past favorites on the school’s social media pages:

 

Youtube: @paulvihighschool

Instagram: @paulvihs

Facebook: Paul VI High School