Bolden Elementary School Hosts Holiday Breakfast for Families

Fourth and fifth graders at Bolden Elementary Middle School, on Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, wrapped up the fall semester with a family holiday breakfast Dec. 19 that blended celebration with meaningful learning.

Organized by fourth- and fifth-grade teachers Lori Wynn and Jenn Wharton alongside special education and support staff, the event drew students, parents and educators for breakfast, festive activities and family bonding—reinforcing the strong partnerships that help military-connected children succeed despite frequent moves and transitions.

Such family engagement events support DoDEA's Blueprint for Continuous Improvement, particularly its goals of Student Excellence (through multi-tiered supports and future-ready experiences) and School Excellence (via collaborative, high-quality instruction in supportive environments).

Highlights included:

• A STEM sleigh-building challenge led by Michelle Montanez, where students like fifth grader Paizleigh tested designs to practice engineering and problem-solving.
• Holiday fitness relays and jump-rope activities in the gym with PE teacher Brenden Stanford and paraprofessional Marnita Powell, promoting physical health and teamwork.
• Snowflake art creation with Pam Glover, as fourth grader Emmalynn guided her mother through the process.
• Rhythmic boomstick music sessions led by Dr. George Ulmer.
• Math challenges guided by Dr. Crystal Kemp and Lisa Musgrove.
• Holiday-themed Kahoot quizzes and word searches in the information center by Shawn Cauthen and Michelle Toale, with fourth graders Cameron, Jaxon and Wyatt joining family teams.

Throughout the morning, families posed for photos at a festive backdrop, capturing joyful moments together that extend the event's warmth beyond the day—creating lasting reminders of school as a welcoming, supportive place and energizing students for a strong return after winter break.