Students from L.B. Williams Elementary will have their artwork featured on the South Dakota tree beside the National Christmas Tree in President’s Park in Washington, D.C.
This beloved holiday tradition, made possible by the National Park Foundation and the National Park Service, features 58 trees — one to represent each U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia as well as the Bureau of Indian Education, and Department of Defense Education Activities — adorned with ornaments designed by K–12 students. The ornaments designed by L.B. Williams students celebrate the unique culture, landmarks, and history of South Dakota, bringing a piece of home to the nation’s capital.
“My art students enthusiastically researched and celebrated many of South Dakota’s treasured landmarks, traditions, and natural features through the creation of their ornaments,” said L.B. Williams Art Teacher Michaela Steffen. “Many students drew inspiration from personal experiences and memories connected to places they have visited throughout our state. As they worked, students shared stories and meaningful moments from their experiences exploring our state, allowing those connections to influence and enrich their artistic designs.”
“I’ve been to Needles Highway a lot of times,” 4th grade ornament artist Brayden H. said. “We drive around looking at the beautiful scenery. We sometimes see people climbing on the giant rock formations. Last year, we saw an eagle and a big horned sheep. Doing this project was a lot of fun and I enjoyed drawing something that I have seen many times.”
The display is open to the public and is free for all visitors.
Thanks LBW