Principals secretly watch students as Santa's eyes and ears

In South Park Township, Pennsylvania, the staff at South Park Elementary Center has embraced a fun and creative holiday tradition by taking on the roles of Santa's elves. This year, principals Kelli Dellarose and TJ Trozzi have again donned iconic red and white elf suits to engage with their students as part of the popular holiday celebration known as 'Elf on the Shelf.' The elf-like antics aim to encourage good behavior among the students, ensuring they remain on Santa's nice list. The involvement of the administrators brings excitement and a festive environment to the elementary school during the holiday season. The event kicked off the week of December 9, 2024, with the principals greeting students at drop-off in a big sleigh, decorated for the occasion. Following the success of their elf impersonations from the previous year, Dellarose and Trozzi have continued to involve different seasonal characters throughout the week, aiming to delight students and create memorable experiences leading up to winter break. Their antics have included special appearances by recognizable holiday figures such as the Grinch, who interacted with students while playfully 'taking' gifts. The efforts of the principals were well-received by students, with a series of daily updates shared on the school's Facebook page to keep families informed and engaged. On each day leading up to winter break, Dellarose and Trozzi, along with other staff members, have been surprising students with various themed activities and decking the school hallways with cheer. The community looks forward to these cheerful events, which not only highlight the festive spirit but also foster a sense of unity and joy in the school environment. As projects like Elf on the Shelf gain popularity in schools nationwide, participation by local educators helps cultivate a positive school culture. The initiative encourages students to behave well, making it a fun incentive to engage in uplifting activities during a time when many are preparing for holiday celebrations. The anticipation of what characters might appear next adds additional excitement for the children, which contributes to the festive atmosphere in the school. This year’s edition of ‘Elf on the Shelf’ showcases the commitment of Dellarose, Trozzi, and the entire South Park Elementary Center to make the holiday season special for their students.