Lakeview School Representatives Celebrate Michigan’s Spirit at National Tree Lighting

On December 4, 2023, four representatives from Lakeview Community Schools traveled nearly 700 miles to witness the National Tree Lighting Ceremony in Washington, D.C.. Superintendent Kelly Nielsen, Elementary School Principal Tiffany Jackson, and teachers Kris Kirshman and Marney Ryan were among those celebrating the festive season at this iconic event.

The group marveled at the National Christmas Tree, but their excitement peaked when they saw a smaller tree adorned with unique ornaments crafted by Lakeview third-graders. These ornaments, designed last spring, feature drawings that represent what Michigan means to the students, showcasing the state’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks such as the Mackinac Bridge and the Great Lakes.

From Concept to Celebration

These third-graders, now fourth-graders, created the ornaments as part of a “secret mission” announced during a special assembly in mid-November, attended by State Representative Pat Outman. The reveal was met with excitement as students learned their artwork would be displayed on one of 59 trees representing each U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia surrounding the National Christmas Tree.

This year, a Christmas tree from Korson’s Tree Farm in Sidney Township was also selected as the official White House Christmas tree, further highlighting the representation of Montcalm County in the nation’s capital.

Lakeview Elementary School was fortunate to receive four complimentary tickets to the National Tree Lighting Ceremony through a lottery conducted by the National Park Foundation. This opportunity allowed the school’s representatives to participate in the event firsthand, deepening the connection between local students and the national celebration.

A Magical Experience

Reflecting on the experience, Ryan emphasized the importance of such moments for both students and staff. “My favorite part of this project was seeing the kids’ and parents’ faces in awe when we announced what the actual ‘Christmas mission’ was,” she remarked. “Standing in Washington, D.C., by the National Tree with our very own Michigan tree adorned with Lakeview Elementary ornaments was an experience I cannot put into words.”

Kirshman shared her perspective, describing the journey from the initial surprise of the project to the culmination of their efforts in Washington, D.C. “This was a truly impactful and phenomenal experience,” she stated. “Seeing the reactions on the kids’ faces the day their secret mission was revealed was unforgettable.”

Principal Jackson echoed these sentiments, expressing pride in the students’ creativity and the honor of being present at the ceremony. “It was such an amazing experience, from the very first phone call to seeing the ornaments on the tree that represented our great state of Michigan,” she said. “We are grateful to the Lakeview community for their support, which also allowed us to participate in the local tree lighting.”

The Christmas tree display in Washington, D.C., is open to the public until January 1, 2026, and free for all visitors. The Michigan-themed ornaments created by Lakeview students can also be viewed online at thenationaltree.org/ornaments.