Plaxton Grade 2 students recognize first responders with Christmas cards

For the past four years, Grade 2 classes at Dr. Robert Plaxton Elementary School have been creating Christmas cards, for a very special purpose.
"Each year, the project has grown substantially," said Melissa Herbst. "It began with me dropping the bags off to the various places, and then last year a handful of first responders came to the school to visit."
On Wednesday, the 2024 version of the holiday tradition received a major boost.
"This year, when they put out the call to have people come visit, they went above and beyond," said Herbst. "We had members of Fire/EMS bring an engine and an ambulance, members of LPS, including the police chief, bring patrol vehicles and an armoured vehicle. We also had 911 represented. Students were able to gift their cards, ask questions and tour the various vehicles."
The project began with a personal connection for Herbst.
"My brother spent quite a few years working for 911 before becoming a member of LPS last year," she said. "I saw an opportunity to build connections with first responders and to help spread cheer in a way only our littlest of learners can."
Students have spent the last few weeks learning about ways they can spread joy and kindness for free.
"The conversations with them yesterday showed that they felt such pride in sharing some cheer but also got something in return with the time and dedication of these individuals," said Herbst. "I hope that by fostering these connections we can create positive memories in the students surrounding first responders, as often times our only connection with these people is in times of trouble."