On Thursday, December 19, students and employees from across the school gathered in Griswold Gym for Germantown Academy's 35th annual CSO Holiday Program. Students came bearing toys, clothes, gift cards, and basic necessities to make the holiday season a little brighter and more comfortable for those in need. The gifts will go to support children and families through Whosoever Gospel Mission, Carson Valley Children's Aid, Special Olympics, American Ukrainian Relief Association, Mitzvah Circle, Cradles to Crayons, Gemma Services, and Southwest Philadelphia Community Services.

Coordinated by faculty advisors Anthony Commale and Bob Moyer 1760, the CSO senior leaders Taryn DiFranco, Nathan Richards, Gabby Bowes, Gianna Kim, Max Toren, Winston Sun, Jessica Kolecki, Farihah Kemp, and Ellis Johnson served as speakers at the event and introduced the work done by each of the charities. They were assisted by Ishaan Paladugu '25, Kiran Bagga '25, Sean Walsh '25, and many other CSO “elves.”

The program also featured performances by the Upper School Singing Patriots, the Middle School Chorus, and the Upper School Jazz Band, along with a delightful previously recorded video featuring Richards and fifth-grade teacher Kurt Wetzel '88 highlighting and reviewing the many musical groups at GA. The CSO Holiday Program would not be complete without a sled race, which saw the Class of 2026 claim victory over the other grades to win a dress-down day

The Holiday Program serves as a touchstone that not only signals winter break is near, but reminds us of what’s important—caring, generosity and kindness.

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