As the malls fill up, wish lists grow, parties are planned and families gather many are welcoming in the Holiday Season.  Here in New Orleans, Canal Street is now illuminated by palm trees strung with lights, the Roosevelt Hotel smells of fresh pine, carriages are parading through City Park in “celebration of the Oaks” and carols drift through the doors of St. Louis Cathedral. This time of year is one during which we try to remember those who have reached into our lives and all that have touched our hearts throughout the year.  As we look back at the past year, there were so many people that came into our schools to work with and for our students.  We are thankful for every one of you who picked up a paint brush with us, learned how to use a hammer, sent books, built playgrounds, donated sports equipment, planted trees, and so much more.  As we reflect on all of your hard work, we are truly touched by those who have remembered their time in New Orleans and continue to give this season.  A very special thanks must go to Youth Works who sent a very generous donation to help our schools through the holidays.  Week after week this summer Youth Works volunteers and staff worked alongside us here at the Recovery School District, not only willing to help our schools but also eager to learn about our city and our students.  Although summer and now fall have come and gone we are so grateful for Youth Works to continue to remember us and to continue to have an impact on our schools. Emory University and the BMBA Program also contributed from at the University and Individual level. Big ups to them.  This year we are so grateful for everyone who has invested their time, hands and hearts to our schools.  We are certainly excited for all of the new adventures that will surely occur throughout this coming year and we are looking forward to everyone continuing to be a part of our work.  Happy Holidays! Go Saints.