In the News

Students from across grade levels took part, presenting choral music, poetry readings, dramatic scenes, video presentations, and visual art displays. Together, the program explored the message of Christ’s birth and the enduring themes of hope, redemption, and light through the voices and work of children and teens.

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Two original student plays formed the centerpiece of the evening. Middle and Upper School students presented The Christmas Carolers’ Catastrophe, an original Yutzy School mini-play that brought humor and warmth to the program. Through playful dialogue and exaggerated characters, the students explored the frustrations of imperfect caroling before arriving at a simple truth: Christmas joy is found not in flawless performance, but in giving from the heart.

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The Lower School followed with The Greatest Story, a Nativity reenactment written specifically for the program. Told through narration, pantomime, and scripture, the play offered a gentle and reverent retelling of Luke 2, inviting the audience to see the Christmas story through the wonder and imagination of children.

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Music throughout the evening helped unite both reverence and celebration. Students sang familiar hymns and carols, including “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” “How Great Our Joy,” and “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen.” During the Nativity presentation, the invitation for the audience to join in singing “Silent Night” transformed the reenactment into a shared moment of reflection and worship.

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Behind the scenes, the program was guided by Yutzy School faculty who supported and shaped the students’ work. Miss Shaina Esh, teacher at The Yutzy School, served as emcee, directed both dramatic presentations, coordinated costumes, and authored The Greatest Story. Mrs. Gessica Tastove, the school’s music teacher and choir director, led all musical instruction, with accompaniment by Megan Wright. Mrs. Maria Casto assisted with rehearsals and logistics throughout the preparation process.

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Those who arrived early were treated to student-produced music videos created by students in The Yutzy School’s Video Production class, highlighting moments from the first semester. Artwork from the school’s drawing class was also displayed, adding a visual dimension to the evening’s celebration.

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At the conclusion of the program, Dr. Ric Mitchell, Head of School, offered brief remarks, expressing pride in the students and gratitude for the school community.

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“The Christmas story is about a perfect Savior,” Mitchell said, “and about ordinary, imperfect people who keep trying. That’s a story we can all relate to. Tonight, I hope you were touched by our students’ effort, their sincerity, and most of all by the love that Jesus Christ has for all of us.”

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Following the program, families and guests gathered in the gymnasium for refreshments and fellowship. The reception was coordinated by Faye Yutzy, Sheila Brown, and Julie Keim, along with parent and community volunteers.

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The event was hosted by the Garnett Church of the Nazarene, whose continued support has made gatherings like the Christmas program possible. The school also expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership of Daniel Yutzy and The Yutzy Foundation, which supports student programs and opportunities throughout the year.

Now in its second year, The Yutzy School Christmas Program is becoming a meaningful tradition—one that reflects the school’s commitment to Christ-centered education, creativity, and the belief that growth often comes not through perfection, but through effort, humility, and shared joy.

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For more information about The Yutzy School, visit YutzySchool.org.