Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Children look forward to the extravagance of seeing Santa Claus each and every year. 

On December 13, students of Clark County Preschool received such an opportunity. 

Guided by staff, hundreds took a short walk to Holly Rood – located next door at 28 Beckner Street – to see and take photos with Santa Claus and more. 

“We have been invited by Holly Rood to come up and see this special guy that they all love and adore,” said Jill Blanton, President of Clark County Preschool. “They get to see him and talk to them, and then Santa always has a special treat.” 

The event has been part of an ongoing collaboration between the preschool and Holly Rood, also known as the Governor James A. Clark Mansion after the late leader of the Commonwealth. 

During the week, kids got into the holiday spirit when Clark Claus – not unlike the Elf in the Shelf – was actively involved in the school. 

Such an opportunity allowed the young ones to play a giving role as well. 

“He hid some candy canes around our school, and each classroom had to find a candy cane to give to Santa,” she said. 

With Santa sitting indoors, a large gathering of students arrived throughout the day. 

“We have 303 students enrolled, and typically our attendance is [about] 88 percent,” Blanton added. “Santa’s probably seeing about 275 kids today.” 

As might be expected, the reactions of students were varied. 

While a few showed signs of nervousness, perhaps overwhelmed at the sight of the beloved Santa Claus, others were quite happy and excited at the opportunity to visit Santa Claus. 

Santa Claus himself was much the same, welcoming students to tell him what they wanted for Christmas. 

Yet that’s not all. 

In addition to a visit with Santa Claus, children received other gifts. 

“They’re actually getting a…Christmas story book and a candy cane,” Blanton added. 

Choices of the story book included “How to Trick a Christmas Elf” by Sue Fliess, and “We’re Going On a Gingerbread Hunt” by Anna Membrino. 

A coloring book with crayons was also available. 

Volunteers helping students choose gifts and more including Sheila McCord and Steve Justice, President of Clark County-Winchester Heritage Commission. 

When asked what the most exciting part of the day’s event was, Blanton responded. 

“[What’s] most exciting is…to [to] watch our students that have been working on their social skills and communication skills to come see Santa and not be scared,” she said. “Just to see how excited they are and see them light up [is great]…our students absolutely love this, and that’s what we’re here for!”