One of the happiest days of the year at St. James Episcopal Day School is our annual Grandparents and Special Friends Day—a beloved tradition that fills our campus with the joy and laughter of generations celebrating together.
This year’s theme, “St. James Through the Years,” took our community on a musical and artistic journey from the 1950s through the 2000s. From the moment our guests arrived, the excitement was everywhere. Grandparents and special friends were welcomed with coffee and warm beignets, giving everyone time to visit and enjoy the morning together before the program began.
The celebration featured two special highlights: our student musical performance and our art show. Each grade level brought a different decade to life through music, with energetic performances that had the audience smiling, clapping, and sometimes even singing along. Watching our students confidently take the stage—sharing their voices, enthusiasm, and hard work—was truly a joy.
Just outside the performance space, families enjoyed a walk through our student art galleries, where creative works inspired by the decades were proudly displayed. From bright colors and bold designs to thoughtful details, each piece reflected the imagination and effort our students poured into their creations.
We extend a special thank you to our music teacher, Ms. Nita Hannie, and our art teacher, Ms. Caroline Hagan, whose creativity and dedication helped bring this year’s theme to life. Their work with our students made the performances and art show such a meaningful and memorable experience for everyone who attended.
Beyond the music and art, what makes this day so meaningful is the connection it fosters across generations. Grandparents and special friends play such an important role in the lives of our students. Taking time to celebrate them—and to welcome them into the life of our school—strengthens the bonds that make our community so special.
Seeing grandparents beam with pride, students eagerly waving from the stage, and families sharing moments together throughout the morning reminds us why this tradition is so treasured.
Grandparents and Special Friends Day truly captures the heart of St. James. It is a day full of smiles and grateful hearts, and one we look forward to celebrating year after year. 💚💙
