The Edison Guidance department hosted their 4th annual Hope for the Holiday in the library on December 18th. 

An abundance of origamis scattered around the table as students read through directions and crafted hearts, cats, and cranes. Many may ask the question, what does origami have to do with the holidays.

“It just gave them a moment to reflect on the people that they loved or love,” Ms. Trebour described. “And maybe to walk away knowing that, like, they took some time to honor them today.”

Hope for the Holidays is a counselor-led event made to give students a quiet, relaxed space to slow down during the holiday season–which is often an overwhelming time of year. The annual event invites every student to step into the library, with soft background music playing, lights dimmed, and a separate table with an origami ornament tree–showcasing student’s creativity. “So the counseling department wanted to just have a space where people could come and, as you can see, it’s pretty relaxing,” Trebour added.

Students who participated in this event echoed this sentiment. This event allowed anyone to come and find a quiet space for themselves; students didn’t have to be facing loss, some may just want to find some peace.

“It was very peaceful and calming,” Samantha Martin, a Sophomore stated, “It is a good opportunity so people would bond, talk, and be more social with each other.” 

“I felt more focused,” Kira Doray, a senior, described,  “I was kind of like, just like sliding through today because I was just feeling kind of bored, but now I have something to kind of, like, focus on.” 

But what makes this event so special?

The guidance department’s support and teamwork played a crucial part in their success. Whether it was Ms. Lisa, helping bring all the materials and untangling all the lights in the morning with Ms. Trebour or Ms. Minanya practicing and folding crane origami.

 “I love how the guidance department comes together and each kind of lends their own area of expertise,” Ms. Trebour continued.

While the holidays are often seen as a time of celebration, Hope for the Holidays acknowledges that it can also be a time of grief and loss. 

This program was inspired by guidance and their multiple conversations with their students. They realized that the holidays are not always a pleasant time for all. 

“Sometimes it’s not always like holly jolly and you know like people have all this like these celebrations which are wonderful. It’s important to just hold some space for people who might not be in that headspace,” said Mrs. Trebour.

The event offers students the chance to pause, remember, and honor those who hold a special place in their hearts. It also serves as a way for students to support one another and have a moment to bond with those experiencing something similar. Through simple acts like folding origami and sharing quiet moments together, Edison continues to reinforce the importance of empathy, reflection, and community.

“I’d love to get the word out and see even more students participate in the event next year. It is important for students to know that there is a safe space to gather in the days leading up to the holidays,” Mrs. Trebour said.