Area IV Assistant Superintendent Paula Johnson has a friend serving in the war in Afghanistan, and she knew how homesick the soldiers would be during the holidays. So she organized some of the East Baton Rouge Parish School System elementary school students and staff in her area to create Christmas cards for a group of soldiers. They received more than 700 cards from students and teachers.

“I thought it would be a way to teach our students about giving to others while also giving soldiers a morale boost,” Johnson said. “We’re sending the cards out today so they get to these troops in Afghanistan in time for Christmas.”

Many of the cards feature one-of-a-kind drawings by the students, such as one signed “Kyla” with a Christmas tree and its angel topper. The Greenbrier Elementary School student wrote, “I am writing because I care. You are in war fighting and risking
your life for me. … I wish you were able to be with your family for Christmas. … I also hope you win, because I know you’re strong and your heart is strong … I am thankful for you fighting for (my) rights … .” At the end of the note, there was a drawing of Santa
next to a Christmas tree and a bag marked “war supplies” (first photo).

“Kennedi,” who also attends Greenbrier, drew an American flag on his card. “I might not know how you feel, but my dad does. He just came back from where you are, and he said he felt the same way. And I thank you for all you are doing for me and my country.   … I hope something good happens down where you are, and please tell your fellow soldiers that I and my country thank all of you for all of the things you have done for us.”

In addition, “Amber” wrote, “I thank you for serving our country. You men and women are so cool. I want to become a soldier like you, so I can serve our country like you. I wish you a very Merry Christmas.”

But perhaps a student named “Kerman” summed it up best. In his card (second photo), which included a picture of snowmen with glitter, he wrote “If you have children, a husband or wife, I bet they wish you were home for Christmas and other holidays. If I
were you, I would feel the same. Because being in the desert and keeping a smile on your face is hard, but I know you can get through the hard times. One day while you are in the Army, they are going to call your name to go home to your great family.”

There also were hand-drawn cards from teachers. Art teacher Maria Allen of White Hills Elementary School created one with Santa Claus on the front (third photo). It was signed by the principal and other teachers.