PJMS unites staff and teachers with longstanding holiday tradition

PALMER — Palmer Junior Middle School gathered once again for the annual Christmas Luncheon, continuing a beloved tradition that brings everyone together.

“It’s just to wish everyone a merry Christmas,” PJMS teacher Linda Jo Klapperich said. “It was fabulous. Everything’s decorated. The kids are excited about it. The kids wear Christmas sweaters. It’s a lot of fun.”

Klapperich said the PJMS Christmas Luncheon is a time when various staff members including superstar cafeteria workers and the school principal band together to offer free holiday-themed meals and activities to all students.

Klapperich organizes this annual tradition with the help of students and staff. Students and staff both contribute to this event, and everyone has a chance to enjoy the food, the fun and the holiday spirit.

“Everybody helps,” Klapperich said.

The PJMS Christmas Luncheon started over 25 years ago and it means a great deal to the whole school, according to Klapperich.

“It’s a fabulous tradition. Students and staff really look forward to it every year,” Klapperich said. “I think it creates a feeling of family. It brings everyone together and creates a feeling that we truly care about the students. It’s so important. We just really want to continue with this tradition. It creates a special bond between the students and the teachers.”

For more information about Palmer Junior Middle School, call 907-761-4300 or visit matsuk12.us/pjm.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com