RHS, 4K students team up to make holiday memories

By Eileen Persike

Editor

RHINELANDER – A dozen four-year-olds sat unusually quietly in their chairs, eyeing up the five Rhinelander High School students who had appeared in their classroom. The students were FBLA/DECA club members and were there to help Mrs. Swan’s 4K class at Northwoods Community Elementary School write letters to Santa.

The students’ demeanor changed once they were grouped with the high schoolers and began talking about what they wanted to say to Santa.

“It’s one of those things you remember about Christmas is writing Santa letters,” said Caden Sieker.

The event is one of the club’s annual community service outreach projects and seemed to bring out smiles among the younger and the older students.

“It’s a fun activity to do with the kids,” said senior Cody Ruetz. “I remember when I was in elementary school and I saw someone older, kind of a role model to look after. I want to be that for these kids.”

Cody was partnered with Jaxon, who drew a picture of the monster truck he is hoping to find under the tree and also colored a Christmas stocking.

“He makes it really fun,” Cody added of the lively Jaxon.

Senior Bryan Glover said in addition to the letters, they will be helping kids in February construct valentine boxes. Today he sat with Eva and Estelle.

“They both want Barbie Dream Houses and they both made colorful stockings,” Bryan said. “They’re doing a great job.”

Freshmen Jayten Barkus and Devin Feck rounded out the FBLA/DECA crew that day, making memories with the youngsters and maybe even making Christmas wishes come true.

RHS FBLA/DECA club member Caden Sieker writes Sofie’s Santa wishes on a piece of holiday stationery

Jayten Barkus and Harrison work out what to write to Santa

Cody Ruetz teamed up with Jaxon

Mila works on her letter to Santa

Bryan Glover with Estelle and Ava

Devin Feck helps Adalyn and Corvan write letters to Santa