During the holiday season, leadership often shows up in quiet, meaningful ways. For the past four years, the School District of Lancaster’s Office of School Leadership has embraced that spirit by partnering with local programs to ensure students feel supported and celebrated during this special time of year.
What began as a personal act of care has grown into a district-wide tradition rooted in compassion. In its earliest year, district leaders came together to donate and wrap gifts for Families in Transition (FIT), recognizing that the holidays can be especially challenging for students and families experiencing housing insecurity. The intention was simple and thoughtful. To make sure students felt remembered and supported during a time when stability can feel uncertain.
As the work continued, the partnership transitioned to The Mix, expanding the initiative’s reach and deepening its impact. The collaboration began when Camille Hopkins, Director of Schools, reached out to The Mix’s director to explore how the district could support students through a space centered on belonging, connection, and youth empowerment. That initial outreach laid the foundation for a partnership that continues to grow each year.
Since then, SDoL building principals and administrators across the district have stepped up in meaningful ways. Leaders made personal donations, volunteered their time, and took part in shopping for students, paying close attention to individual interests and needs. Each gift was chosen with care, reflecting the intention behind the effort rather than the act of giving alone.
This year, that collective commitment resulted in 36 students receiving carefully selected gifts. Behind every wrapped present was a leader who paused a busy schedule to show up for a student in a personal way. In earlier years, Camille carried much of this work independently. Today, with the partnership and support of Dr. April Hershey, the effort has grown stronger and more sustainable, ensuring every student is accounted for and every detail is handled with care.
This initiative reflects the heart of the School District of Lancaster. It shows leadership grounded in compassion and community built through action. It serves as a reminder that leadership does not stop at school doors or office hours. It lives in the moments when adults choose to show up for students simply because they matter.
Our students matter, not just as learners, but as people. That message lasts far longer than the holiday season.