Commentary: Magic of the holidays

3 days ago 37

Walking into a school during the holiday season is nothing short of magical. The hallways come alive with twinkling lights, hand-cut snowflakes and garlands that stretch from door to door. Each classroom tells its own festive story, bursting with the creativity and care of teachers, principals, counselors and staff who have poured their hearts into making every corner a wonderland for the children they serve.

What makes these moments so special is not just the decor, but the people behind it. Teachers and staff, dressed in their holiday best — donning reindeer antlers, Santa hats and jingling necklaces — carry an infectious cheer that lights up even the quietest child. Their laughter echoes through the halls, creating a warmth that wraps around every student, even those who might not feel it at home.

For many children, these moments are the essence of the holidays. They may not have trees laden with ornaments or stockings hung by the fire at home, but at school they find a place where magic feels real. Even for the children who do, each day at school becomes a new adventure, filled with surprises — a visit from Santa, a holiday singalong, or simply the joy of sharing cookies baked by the school staff.

Yet, what most people don’t see is the incredible sacrifice it takes to create this magic. Teachers stay late into the evening, crafting decorations or baking treats, while their own families wait at home. Principals and counselors work tirelessly to ensure every child feels seen and special, often putting their own needs aside. School nurses care for children battling winter illnesses, all while worrying if those same children have a warm jacket to wear when they leave.

And all of this is done against the backdrop of an underfunded system, where every effort feels like a miracle pulled from thin air.

As a school board member, I have the privilege of witnessing the dedication of these unsung heroes. I see teachers running to help me unload a car full of donated holiday gifts, all while ensuring their own children are dressed and ready for the school’s holiday play. I see principals ensuring there’s space for every student to participate, no matter the challenges they face.

These moments are a reminder of the immense role our schools play in the lives of our children and the community. But it’s also a stark reminder of what’s at stake.

Since 2019, our schools have not received an adjustment to the basic allotment — the funding that forms the backbone of public education. This lack of action has forced us to make tough decisions, decisions no school should have to make. Instead of focusing solely on celebrating and rewarding the incredible people who go above and beyond for our kids, or expanding innovative programs to inspire and nurture students, we are scrambling to ensure that all children — not just some — have these experiences.

Public schools are funded based on attendance, and every absence is felt deeply — not just in the budget, but in the opportunities we can offer. Without adequate funding, we are left trying to stretch every dollar, often choosing between necessities and innovations. It becomes harder to maintain the magic, the wonder and the transformative experiences that make school a place where every child feels valued and inspired.

If we fail to prioritize education and provide the funding our schools so desperately need, these magical moments, these formative experiences, will dwindle. When we put special interests above our children, it is not just our school districts that suffer — it is the kids who lose out on the wonder and joy that every child deserves.

This legislative session, I hope we remember the true purpose of public education. It’s not just about academics; it’s about creating a safe haven where children can dream, explore, and feel the magic of the season. It’s about ensuring that every child, no matter their background, feels seen and valued. It’s about giving our teachers and staff the resources they need to make magic happen — not just for a few, but for all.

To those who work tirelessly to make this magic happen: thank you. You remind us all of the profound importance of our schools and the extraordinary impact of a community that cares. This holiday season, let’s honor that spirit by committing to fully fund our schools, adjust the basic allotment, and ensure that every child, in every hallway, has a chance to experience the magic.

Daniella Lopez Valdez is Place 5 trustee on the Brownsville ISD school board.