Holton-Arms Gatherings: A Celebration of Lights and Belonging

 

The Holton community gathered for the first-ever Celebration of Lights, an All School Gathering honoring reflection, unity, and joy. The Marriott Gymnasium was transformed into a serene and inviting space, with dim lighting, soft music, and battery-operated tea lights placed in the hands of every Panther.

Over thirty speakers—students, faculty, and staff—took to the podium to share insights into winter festivals and holidays from around the world. Each voice carried a message of respect and curiosity, with many speakers describing celebrations outside their own cultural or religious backgrounds. This intentional sharing of stories highlighted the richness of our community and the ways in which light serves as a universal symbol of hope, warmth, and connection.

Whether it’s the candles of Hanukkah, the lanterns of Diwali, or the Yule log of winter solstice celebrations, light represents a shared human desire to connect, overcome challenges, and find joy.

Student Reflections

Throughout the day, students shared their overwhelmingly positive feedback. “It felt special to be together,” one student said. Another added, “I learned so much about other holidays. It made me feel connected to everyone.” These reflections reaffirm the importance of creating unifying experiences that not only educate but also build a sense of belonging.

The Celebration of Lights and Belonging was a meaningful learning experience that demonstrated the strength of our community. Students saw their peers and teachers in new roles, leading and participating in ways that showcased their unique gifts. This distribution of leadership—from third graders to faculty members—modeled the interconnectedness that defines Holton-Arms.

The Gift of Community

The Holton-Arms experience is more than a collection of classrooms; it is a living, breathing community where learning happens everywhere—from the dining hall to the gymnasium, from the science labs to the library. These common spaces and shared moments are where we grow as individuals and as a collective, learning not only from books but from one another.

Gatherings such as the Celebration of Lights and Belonging are integral to who we are at Holton, to showcasing our unique approach to education and to nurturing the “claw of community”—the idea that we are stronger together, bound by a shared purpose and a commitment to excellence.