The Holiday Shoppe at Andover Elementary/Middle School is a favorite tradition that students look forward to every December. It is a one-day event when students are able to buy gifts at very unbelievably affordable prices for their families, and the children get to make their selections all by themselves.

The Holiday Shoppe is on Thursday, December 18, in the gym at AE/MS. Each class is assigned a half hour in which to do their shopping. Students are encouraged to pre-plan so as to make the most of their time.

Christine Frost will again coordinate the shop. Questions can be directed to Christine at 735-5500, and items can be dropped off in the school office any time before December 18.

The local ladies from the New Hampshire Circle of Home and Family and the AE/MS PTO can always be counted on for help and support with the Holiday Shoppe. The New Hampshire Circle of Home and Family ladies provide great assistance, taking shifts during the day, contributing items, and decorating bags.

Many hours are donated to this event, and AE/MS students really appreciate it. Many community members generously donate items year after year. Townspeople and school families bring in trinkets, jewelry, handmade mittens and hats, small tools, sports memorabilia, toys, books, etc. Many people are great about thinking of AE/MS when shopping.

Please consider sending in new or almost new items. If you are shopping and see a bargain and are able to help, please pick up something for the Holiday Shoppe.

The children absolutely love the opportunity to surprise their family members with the gifts they shopped for, selected, and wrapped all by themselves. Last year, over 2,000 items were thoughtfully chosen and bought by the children.

One of my favorite afternoons is watching students board the school bus with their carefully wrapped and concealed treasures. The students are bursting with pride, and I always wonder how many of them are able to wait until Christmas to share their surprises. Thanks so much!