Filling in for Santa at Copper Hills High School

Playing the role of Santa is a tradition as old as Copper Hills High School itself. For years, students have been opening their hearts and wallets and generously giving to the Sub-for-Santa program.

“Each year we set a goal to beat the previous year,” SBO public relations officer Makenzie Jorgensen said. “Spare change really adds up quick.”

Last year, the student body raised over $24,000 and supplied Christmas to over 50 children in the area. This year, the need is greater, and the goal is to help 60-70 families with gifts.

“Our advisor contacted an elementary school in the area that had 65 families that needed help. We volunteered to take 20 of those families, as well as many families who we are aware of right here in the Copper Hills area,” SBO communication officer Nicole Melde said. “Knowing how many families we are helping and realizing there are more out there makes me realize how lucky I am, and makes it easy to give up a few bucks.”

Student leaders gave up a lot of sleep and free time over the Thanksgiving weekend to kick things off. They worked as baggers during Black Friday at the Smith’s Market Place in West Jordan for free, and in return the store donated their “wages” to the Sub-for-Santa fund.

“We had to be there before the store opened at 5 a.m. and we worked hard,” Melde said. “We set out tip jars, and a lot of people dropped in their change.”

The Sub-for-Santa program involved the entire school on many levels. During a week of service, the PTA sets up quilting frames after school, and students volunteer whatever time they have to bind and tie the quilts. This year, students finished 30 quilts that will go to each of the children on the Sub-for-Santa list.

“This [Sub-for-Santa] tradition lasts because it involved the whole school,” SBO vice president Megan Ziolkowski said. “You can donate money or your time. Traditions like this are meant to last because it brings the spirit of Christmas into our school.”

A little friendly competition also helps the officers raise the money they need to help so many people. Teachers challenge students, offering to do dares if students raise a certain amount of money.

“We also offer to let the boys do our hair and make up one day if we hit our goal, and the boys bleach their hair if we hit our goals,” Melde said. “It’s a lot of fun.”