"You're invited for a ride on the Polar Express!" said the Fourth Grader excitedly to her First Grade Buddy, who sat looking awestruck at the proffered golden ticket.

So began the Polar Express experience created by Fourth-Grade teacher Ms. Errickson. Later in the day, the older students escorted their First Grade friends onto the "train" to travel to the classroom that had been decorated to look like the Polar Express, complete with check in station, a lighted pathway, snowflake projections on the walls and ceilings, hot cocoa, and holiday music. There were smiles all around as the joys of the season combined with creative teaching for a community celebration that kicked off the holiday in style. Click here for photos.