December 2020
PLAINFIELD, NJ — Cresthaven Academy Charter School, a high-quality charter public school in Plainfield, hosted its annual Polar Day Express event Monday, complete with the conductor and Santa, to lift its young students’ spirits this holiday season after an extraordinarily challenging year.
Unlike in previous years, where staff and scholars would wear pajamas and sing songs with Santa, the school’s 390 students arrived throughout the morning to pick up their gift bags that were stuffed with up to twelve handpicked gifts. Arrival times were staggered by grade to adhere to state and CDC guidelines on COVID-19.
“While this is a beloved annual holiday tradition among our scholars, we know it takes on special meaning this year, given the challenging year we’ve had," Monica Villafuerte, Founding Principal of Cresthaven Academy Charter School, said.
“We’re so grateful to our many generous donors, who have made it possible for Cresthaven to bring a little extra holiday cheer to our scholars and families."
Staff and parent volunteers spent the past several weeks wrapping over 4,000 donated gifts, ranging from LEGO® toys to art and slime kits to cards and board games. Cresthaven Academy has also been distributing school meals, including breakfast and lunch, at no charge for any child under the age of 18 since March.
Villafuerte added, "One of our core values is joy, and we wanted to make sure that our kids can believe in the magic of this season, even if it looks different this year.”
The event took place outdoors to ensure the safety of the school community. Homework materials and food were also distributed to families during the event.
About Cresthaven Academy Charter School
Founded in 2016 with just 75 students, Cresthaven Academy Charter School, located in Plainfield at 530 West 7th Street, has grown into a K-5 charter public school serving over 390 students, and exists to provide a comprehensive education to scholars that develops the whole child through academic excellence, physical wellness, emotional health, and character enrichment. Cresthaven Academy is built on the belief that all children, regardless of race or economic status, can succeed when given equal access to a high-quality education. In conjunction with the Cresthaven Academy Foundation, the school ensures scholars are empowered to overcome challenges and equipped to sustain their success in school and beyond. Learn more at www.cresthavenacademy.org.