Santa, Grinch and elves visit N.B. Mills Elementary School (Photos)

**Students at N.B. Mills received a visit from special guests on Tuesday morning. Santa delivered toys and candy to all the kids.**

BY KARISSA MILLER

N.B. Mills Elementary School students received a special surprise from Santa Claus, a kind-hearted Grinch and the elves on Tuesday morning.

“Who wants to sing Jingle Bells?” asked Karen Kidd, Foundation of Hope Ministries founder.

Students in teacher Ashley Stovall’s class were smiling from ear to ear and energized as they began singing. Meanwhile, Santa, Grinch and elf volunteers with Foundation of Hope Ministries, along with Statesville Police Department officers, made their way into the classroom and clapped along to the beat.

“Everyone gets a chance to see Santa and get excited for the holiday break. It builds a positive culture and you can really see the excitement,” said Principal Sally Schultz.

Students in the NC pre-K classes are learning about kindness and giving back to others, which tied into the spirit of the day, Schultz said.

For student Journee Gunnings, it was a chance to see one of her favorite movie characters up close in real life.

“The Grinch is my favorite Christmas movie,” said Gunnings. “I like to give gifts and watch movies with my family.”

“It’s fun to see Santa and get candy and a toy,” added Skylar Summers, 8.

Sa’Miah Mills, 9, said her favorite tradition is going over to her Auntie’s house and opening gifts while playing some fun games.

SPD Officer Germaine Fitchett was glad to participate in the festivities.

“I liked seeing all the kids smile and it has made me happy to see that everyone likes all the characters,” the officer said.

Santa has a busy schedule. While preparing for the big day, he’s been visiting schools, Fifth Street Ministries and a variety of community events.

Tuesday’s visit was sponsored by Iredell-Statesville School Board of Education member Abby Trent and her mom Angela Matthews, who helped fill Santa’s toy and candy bag as he visited each classroom on campus.

“It makes my heart happy to see the kids happy. I like doing things for the kids, and it’s my way of giving back,” Trent said.

Abby’s daughter Anna, who will turn one-year old next month, also came along for the fun and enjoyed listening to the singing.