It was nearing sunset on December 18, 2023, and the halls of Mid-Metro Academy were filled with the excited chatter of students. They had just come out of their final classes after having worked hard all semester and had earned a well-deserved break. Students hung out throughout the school with their groups of friends, waiting for their parents to arrive. This was the atmosphere in the school before the fall semester’s Open House and Showcase began.

The Open House had many games and activities for students and their families. A scavenger hunt encouraged people to walk around the school and look at different classrooms. It served a dual purpose: keeping younger children entertained by getting them to look for the hidden object in each classroom, which allowed the parents and older students to tour the classrooms and talk to the teachers whose displays gave information about upcoming spring semester classes.

Another fun activity was set up by the reception desk. Attendees in the mood for a puzzle could try to match Mid-Metro’s teachers to their childhood pictures. It certainly was not an easy game and required contestants to have a keen eye.

When parents and students tired of walking around and wanted to sit down and refuel, they could visit the hot chocolate bar in the Fellowship Hall for a warm, sweet cup of cocoa. Free cookies were also available to enjoy with the drink, and the two treats together really helped get everyone into the Christmas spirit.

While enjoying their treats, students and parents could walk around the Fellowship Hall and look at the art displays on the wall. The artwork, created by students taking Mrs. Sandy Adler’s Drawing Basics and Mixed Media classes, showcased their hard work over the semester.

One more competition was the Guess How Many game. A jar filled with M&Ms was set on a table in one of the hallways. Everyone could participate by submitting their estimate of how many M&Ms were in the jar. The winner was announced at the end of the Showcase and was rewarded with the entire jar of candy.

The whole school was filled with the lively energy of students, teachers, and parents, which created a cheery atmosphere as everyone celebrated the end of the semester. It was a joyful way to wrap up 2023.