Celebrating 10 Years of TNAA’s Student-Created Holiday Cards
For the past ten years, TNAA has partnered with Crystal Hill Elementary for a unique twist to our holiday cards. Each year, the students participate in a holiday card design contest to give TNAA a one-of-a-kind holiday card.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of this amazing partnership. We recently spoke with Mr. Kaplan, the art teacher who has overseen this beloved program since its inception, to learn more about its history, impact, and heartwarming moments.
A Neighborly Collaboration
For Crystal Hill Elementary, the project was a chance to collaborate with a neighboring business while giving students a platform to showcase their artistic talents. When the contest was announced to the students, their excitement was immediate. “The idea that they could win gift cards for their artwork was very intriguing,” Mr. Kaplan shared. “Most of the kids were just excited to be creating holiday-themed art.”
While the gift cards are a big draw, the contest also serves as a creative outlet and research project. Since every student at the school receives a district-issued Chromebook, Mr. Kaplan encourages the students to use it to research visual references for the design.
Blending traditional art techniques and modern tools allows the students to push the boundaries of their creativity. Mr. Kaplan provides guidance by showcasing a slideshow of holiday card examples, including past winning designs, and emphasizing the details that make a design stand out.
The program has become a cherished tradition at Crystal Hill Elementary. “This is a Northshore Drive neighbors project that really brings us together,” Mr. Kaplan said. “Students look forward to it every year. It’s not just about the artwork; it’s about the love and support we feel from our neighbors at TNAA.”
The results are fun-filled, colorful cards that fill TNAA employees with joy and appreciation. “These cards bring happiness and lighthearted fun to such a busy, festive time of year,” said Scott Knox, VP of Marketing for TNAA. “We love supporting our local community and seeing the creativity these students bring to life.”
Memorable Moments Over the Years
With a decade of designs to reflect on, Mr. Kaplan finds it hard to pick a favorite. However, one moment stands out: “When my daughter was in fourth grade, she submitted a design that received honorable mention,” he shared. “Her card featured a skeleton with a Santa hat standing next to a Christmas tree, with the message, ‘I’m dying to see you this Christmas!’ It was adorable and became a fan favorite.”
A Tradition of Creativity and Connection
Our holiday card tradition continues to inspire the TNAA and Crystal Hill Elementary communities, and we all look forward to many more years of spreading holiday cheer through the students’ wonderful art.
Thank you to the teachers, students, and TNAA team who make this program successful each year. Here’s to another decade of festive creativity!
