The Westmoreland Central School District’s Zone for Imagination, Innovation and Inspiration (Zi3) again merged technology and creativity with a bit of holiday fun.
The Zi3 hosted the third annual Santa’s Workshop - - its second family night of the school year - - at the Upper Elementary School during the evening of December 3. Sixty families - - totaling more than 200 people - - participated. 
Lisa Davis, Zi3 coordinator, came up with the idea to unite families in a fun way.
“We were looking to come up with something that would bring families in to work together,” Mrs. Davis said. “Knowing that the Zi3 is a space where people can create things, I thought of an elf workshop which became Santa’s workshop.”
And create they did.
Families could either participate in six individual stations or a Munchies and Masterpieces painting class for both adults and students. The painting class, in the cafeteria, was guided by Primary Elementary School Art Teacher Mrs. Bevins, who walked everyone through a snowman landscape. She was assisted by Mrs. Bonomo and Mrs. O’Connell.
“It was great to see both students and parents enjoying themselves, working side by side, creating their own masterpieces,” Mrs. Davis said.
At the six individual stations, families worked together to make their own sun-catchers, snow globes, 3D holiday pop-out cards, Santa's treat holders (with treats), laser engraved ornaments and holiday sugar cookies (decorate).
Several teachers volunteered for the event to help those in attendance with their projects. Mrs. Beck checked families in at the registration desk. Mr. Pacicca and Mrs. Sorensen were in the snow globe and 3D pop-out card room. Mrs. Brindisi, Mrs. DeMichele and Mrs. VanDreason headed the sun catcher station. Mrs. Patrick, Mr. Perrault and Mrs. Wolfanger assisted families with Santa’s treat holders, laser engraved ornaments and sugar cookie decorating. Last but not least, Mr. Polera spread holiday cheer as Jolly Old St. Nick and handed out candy canes to students!
In addition to the several teachers who volunteered, members of the Zi3 Club made 200 cookies for families to decorate, as well as the hallway snowmen decorations that could be found down the STEAM wing and outside of the cafeteria. Mr. Boisen and Mr. Owens also worked with the sixth grade coding class to make interactive gingerbread houses that were showcased outside of the Zi3 room. Students created animations, lighting and holiday sounds using Snap.
“Successful events like this are a team effort, and I couldn’t have done it without the help of everyone who participated and volunteered,” Mrs. Davis said.
The Zi3’s next family night, Superhero STEAM Night, is scheduled for March 25, at 6:00 p.m., at the Upper Elementary School. For more information and to register, click here.