It has been a tradition at Relay Elementary School to gather together on the last day of school before winter break, to share the story of the The Polar Express by author Chris Van Allsburg. This book is a delightful story about the magic of childhood as seen through the eyes of a young boy on a train ride to the North Pole.
Trains have always been an integral part of the history of our community. Horses originally ran along wooden rails pulling wagons from downtown Baltimore to Ellicott Mills. The halfway point of their trip was at the bottom of South Rolling Road where tired horses would be exchanged for rested ones. This exchange was called a “relay” and that is how our community and our school came to be named.
Each year, we invite a special guest to read The Polar Express to our students. This year, the reader will be Mr. Jason Barnett, Relay’s new principal. Sneaks the Cat from the Baltimore County Public Library will also be with us to recognize students who completed the BCPL summer reading program!
Students may wear their pajamas to school on Friday, December 22nd. Students will not be allowed to change their clothes in the lavatory. The children may also carry their favorite stuffed animal (appropriately sized) to keep them company on our journey to the “North Pole.” Bedroom slippers are not allowed due to safety and weather concerns. If your child has his/her own copy of the book, he/she may bring it to the assembly. The words and illustrations of the book will also be projected on the wall for all the students to enjoy.
As in previous years, due to limited space and our school’s large enrollment, we will not be able to accommodate parent attendance. We know you will understand and recognize the importance of the safety of our students.
On behalf of the Relay administration, faculty, and staff, I would like to wish you all laughter and joy this holiday season. ALL ABOARD!!!