Central Hosts Holiday Shop Program
Central Elementary School’s library transformed into a bustling holiday marketplace the second week of December as students browsed, budgeted, and bought gifts for their loved ones at the Penguin Patch Kids’ Holiday Shop. Organized locally by the school’s Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO), the shop offers children a hands-on lesson in money management and holiday cheer.
The Penguin Patch Holiday Shop, a national program, was “founded by Kay, a former PTA/PTO President,” and is a “family- owned and operated business proudly located in Fort Worth, TX,” according to its website. Central Elementary has hosted the shop in past years, but this is its first time under Principal Robin Parker.
Starting Monday, Dec. 9, individual classes were assigned times to visit the store, which featured items priced as low as 25 cents and as high as $16. Each section of merchandise is clearly marked; guiding young shoppers from the least expensive gifts, such as exclusive stickers, to pricier options like drink tumblers. The schedule continued throughout the week, with designated times for each grade level to ensure every student has the chance to participate.
The News-Gazette arrived at the shop that Tuesday morning just as one class was being led in. “This is the most important part! I need your eyes and ears!” said Lisa Bedard, president of the PTO, before explaining the rules.
She pointed out that each section of table, denoted with blue strips of tape, held a certain price range of item, going from least to most expensive, left to right. “If you’ve got those envelopes, on the front, your parents gave you an indication of how much to spend. If it says ‘spend $3’ on that person, don’t go past here,” she said, pointing to the blue tape labeled $3.
Parent volunteers staffed the checkout table, assisting students as they counted their coins and tallied their totals. The children were excited to take charge of their own holiday shopping experience. “I’m getting something for all my family!” said one boy.
Some students saw the shop as a real-world chance to test their learning. “I’m using my math in my head right now,” one girl said, carefully adding up her purchases before heading to the register.
PTO volunteers and school staff beamed at the students’ positive energy.
“If you need help, we will calculate everything to make sure you’re within your price range,” Bedard reminded the group. “You are welcome to touch things, but just put them back where you found them, thank you very much. Even if you don’t buy anything, we don’t care, we’re just happy to see you! Have fun everybody!”
