This year, Saint James School will once again participate in the annual Szopka Krakowska Contest sponsored by the Polish Cultural Club in Hartford, CT.   SJS has been part of this special tradition for many years and the members of the Polish Cultural Club really look forward to viewing our submissions each year.

The making of these “Nativity Castles” will be offered as an optional after school activity for students in grades 4 – 8 under the guidance of middle school teacher Mrs. Grondin (Room 207).  If your child is interested, please send a note to their homeroom teacher by this coming Tuesday – Oct. 8th so that we may get a count of participants.  Depending upon the number of interested students, those in grades 6-8 will be given first preference for participation.

Sessions will begin Tuesday, October 15th in Mrs. Grondin’s classroom.  Students will need to stay after school to work on their castle at least a few days each week to ensure completion in time for the contest on November 30th (judging) and December 1 (public display and awards).  Many supplies will be provided by Mrs. Grondin, although students are welcome to bring materials from home to further enhance their creation.

After the judging, which takes place the weekend after Thanksgiving, the Szopka are brought back to our school where they will be displayed until Christmas.  Prizes are awarded to the 1st – 3rd place winners.

We hope to see many of our students join in the creative fun!