Lakeview School Representatives Celebrate at National Tree Lighting

Four representatives from Lakeview Community Schools traveled approximately 700 miles to witness the National Tree Lighting Ceremony in Washington, D.C., on December 4, 2023. Superintendent Kelly Nielsen, Principal Tiffany Jackson, and teachers Kris Kirshman and Marney Ryan attended the event, where they celebrated not only the official Christmas tree but also a special tree adorned with ornaments crafted by Lakeview third-graders.

The students, now in fourth grade, created these Michigan-themed ornaments last spring. Each ornament represented personal interpretations of what Michigan means to them. The designs featured iconic elements such as robins, loons, the Great Lakes, beaches, the Mackinac Bridge, and scenic sunsets. These ornaments were among those displayed on one of 59 trees representing each U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia, positioned around the National Christmas Tree in the White House Presidents Park.

During a special assembly in mid-November, attended by State Representative Pat Outman, the students learned that their ornaments would be featured at the National Tree Lighting. The assembly revealed the outcome of the project that had been shrouded in secrecy, creating excitement among students and staff alike.

Lakeview Elementary School’s participation in this prestigious event was further highlighted by their selection in a National Park Foundation lottery, which allowed four staff members to attend the ceremony. Principal Jackson expressed her pride in the students’ creativity and the honor of being present for the lighting of the trees.

Ryan, who teaches third grade, reflected on the emotional journey from the initial project to the ceremony in D.C. She noted, “My favorite part of this project was seeing the kids’ and parents’ faces in awe when we announced what the actual ‘Christmas mission’ was.” She added, “To be standing in Washington, D.C., by the National Tree with our very own Michigan tree adorned with Lakeview Elementary ornaments was an experience I cannot put into words. It was a magical moment to go with a magical season.”

Kirshman shared similar sentiments, summarizing the remarkable experience from start to finish. “From being shocked and picking our jaws up off the floor to excitedly explaining our secret mission to our students, this was a truly impactful and phenomenal experience,” she said. “It was breathtaking to be in Washington, D.C., at the White House, next to the National Christmas Tree and our Michigan tree with ornaments designed by Lakeview students. Incredible.”

The Christmas tree display in Washington, D.C., is open to the public now through January 1, 2026, providing visitors with the opportunity to view the personalized ornaments made by Lakeview students. The community’s involvement in this project has fostered a sense of pride and connection to their home state, especially as they celebrate the holiday season.

For those interested in viewing the ornaments, they can be found at thenationaltree.org/ornaments. This project not only showcased the students’ creativity but also strengthened community ties and highlighted the unique culture of Michigan during a festive season in the nation’s capital.