December 14, 2018
By Kelli Gile, WVUSD Office of Community Resources
WALNUT, CA—Westhoff Elementary ushered in the spirit of giving during a Spark of Love toy drive and musical extravaganza on December 7.
The kindergarten through fifth grade students dropped off hundreds of new toys for underserved children in the Los Angeles area as they entered the amphitheater.
“This is a really a time for us to focus on giving back to the community,” said Principal Sandra Lee.
“We want to thank you all for donating toys today for boys and girls in need.”
Then each grade level took a turn on the stage to perform a special holiday song complete with costumes and choreography.
“Our students and teachers have been practicing really hard to put on a great show for you,” Lee said to families attending the school’s signature event.
Kindergarteners wearing leis and sunglasses sang “Merry Hula” followed by first graders line dancing to “Christmas Conga.”
Second graders performed the familiar “Frosty the Snowman” and third graders rocked out to “Reindeer Jive.”
Talented fourth and fifth grade performed “Run, Run Rudolph” and “Go Christmas” featuring dance, gymnastic, scooters, and skateboard solos.
The program concluded with the Sparketts staff members line dancing to “Jingle Bell Rock” and a surprise visit by Santa Claus and his elves.
Westhoff has been a proud partner of the Spark of Love event, co-sponsored by Southland Firefighters and ABC7, since it began in 1992.
Local firefighters from Station #146 were on hand to deliver the donations later in the day.
“This is a great accomplishment!” said Captain Patrick Richardson acknowledging the school’s longtime involvement with the annual drive.
“We want to thank you for participating in Spark of Love. Over the past years, we have collected over 10 million toys for kids in need. Without your love and support we would not be able to do that.”
Shown:
Westhoff Elementary students donate hundreds of toys during the 26th annual Spark of Love program on Dec. 7.
Merry Hula! Adorable kindergartners kick off the 26th annual Spark of Love program at Westhoff Elementary.
Westhoff Elementary first graders have all the right moves during their performance of “Christmas Conga.”
Westhoff second graders perform a holiday favorite during “Frosty the Snowman.”
Third graders wearing holiday antlers rock out during “Reindeer Jive” on December 8.
Fourth graders perform an energetic “Run, Run, Rudolph” at the Spark of Love program on Dec. 7.
Talented Westhoff fifth graders entertain with dance, skateboard, and gymnastics during their version of “Go Christmas.”
Westhoff Sparketts perform the finale during the Spark of Love program.
Let it snow! Santa and his elves make a surprise visit during the Spark of Love holiday program on December 7.