“Writer Swap” is a collaboration with the newspaper of San Juan Diego Catholic High School in Austin, Texas. We will work with their editors to hear stories and traditions from their school and see the differences in our Holy Cross institutions.
The winter session of school, which runs from December through February, is typically the quietest time of year at San Juan Diego. With midterms and the adjustment period after break, the campus settles into a calmer, more focused rhythm. Even so, a few traditions during this season add energy and excitement, giving students something to look forward to before and after winter break.
Before students leave for break, each grade level participates in the annual Christmas hallway decorating competition. The school as a whole takes on a cozy atmosphere as hallway lights are dimmed and replaced with glowing decorations. Seniors transformed their hallway into a winter gingerbread village scene complete with trees and fake snow, earning them the win this year. Juniors filled their hallway with hand-drawn trees and Narnia characters, showcasing their creativity and attention to detail. The sophomores brought Whoville to life with bright lights and playful decorations, and the freshmen recreated The Polar Express by placing their faces on a train and hanging tickets with their names throughout the hallways. Together, the decorations turned the school into a festive space and marked a tradition that students look forward to each year.
When students return from winter break, the semester begins at a slower pace. Everyone takes time to readjust to routines and academic expectations. During this transition, Student Government prepares for Catholic Schools Week, the first major school-wide event of the new semester. Catholic Schools Week celebrates the many parts of the San Juan Diego community, including the parish, students, faculty and staff, families, vocations, and the nation.
Throughout the week, the energy on campus noticeably shifts. Each day highlights a different aspect of school life through prayer, service, school spirit, and appreciation. These aspects are highlighted by different activities throughout the week. On Monday, we create cards and kindness rocks for our community to share our appreciation. Tuesday includes a celebration of the students with a pep rally and free dress attire. On Wednesday, we have face painting and a red, white, and blue themed day to celebrate our nation. To celebrate vocations, Thursday is a career day where we dress as what we hope to be one day. There will also be an opportunity to celebrate our teachers, with some students writing cards, and others bringing gifts.
To conclude the week, Student Government hosts the winter dance, the Snow Ball. After a season that is usually quiet and routine-focused, the dance feels like a release from the slow pace of winter session. It gives students a chance to come together, celebrate the end of Catholic Schools Week, and enjoy being part of the San Juan Diego community before fully settling back into the semester.
