“ The entire Toys for Tots experience illustrates that we are truly Stronger Together .”
students to create unique décor for the holiday event . Students in welding and woodworking classes design projects that allow them to practice the skills they ’ re learning in their career and technical education courses . This year , Ben Barber students created white metal and wooden trees to decorate a flower bed at the entrance of the Center .
“ I like to have something fresh every year ,” said Center for the Performing Arts Director Flo Torres . “ We always ask ourselves , how we can add more and make the experience better for our families .”
The public is invited to bring an unwrapped toy to the Nov . 30 holiday event featuring student performances and fun-filled activities including a sledding hill , games , and an appearance from Santa himself .
HOW TO DONATE
Donate a new , unwrapped toy at any campus or district building . Give a monetary donation online at bit . ly / MISDToysforTotsDonate2023 .
Bring a new , unwrapped toy to the Toys for Tots Community Drive and Holiday Event on Nov . 30 .
Continuing this year , event-goers can enjoy Engineering the Holidays inside the Center . The fun , interactive experience offers STEAM activities including making ornaments with 3D printer pens , creating holiday cards using simple circuits , engineering snowball launchers , and more . The area was made possible by a Mansfield ISD Education Foundation grant sponsored by Mouser Electronics .
Additionally , the special populations department is partnering with Center for the Performing Arts staff for a second year to create a sensory-friendly area .
Large gatherings such as Toys 4 tots can pose potential challenges for students with sensitivities or diverse needs ,” said Director of Special Education Kimberly Schwartz . “ I appreciate the collaborative spirit in MISD , so every student can have an opportunity to participate in momentous events like this .”
The sensory-friendly area will feature its own Santa for kids to meet , fun activities , and staff members who can serve as guides for event-goers with sensory needs .
After the Nov . 30 event , a portion of the Center for the Performing Arts is transformed into a North Pole VIP shopping experience for families who have been selected to receive a donation . Parents and guardians who applied for the program and were selected can visit the Center and choose a special toy for their child .
“ The entire Toys for Tots experience illustrates that we are truly Stronger Together ,” said MISD Superintendent Dr . Kimberley Cantu . “ We are collaborating at every level to make sure our families in need are taken care of and feel seen .”
“ The entire Toys for Tots experience illustrates that we are truly Stronger Together .”
13 MANSFIELDTODAY
DR . KIMBERLEY CANTU Superintendent