On October 7, St. Joseph Elementary School celebrated a delightful tradition filled with excitement and community spirit. The annual turkey trot, now in its 45th year, marked another successful event where students and teachers came together for fun and celebration leading up to Thanksgiving.
The Annual Turkey Trot Tradition
This year, the turkey trot involved two enthusiastic students dressed as “turkeys” trying to evade new teachers during a fun-filled chase in the schoolyard. The event aims to welcome new staff members in a lighthearted manner while bringing joy to the students. With cheering classmates urging them on, the teachers caught the last of the “turkeys” in about 45 seconds, adding to the jubilation of the day.
St. Joseph’s turkey trot tradition has evolved over the years. Initially, winners received a live turkey, as noted by Michelle Rusteika, owner of Sobeys in Lloydminster, who has personally been part of this local custom for over a quarter-century. Nowadays, instead of a turkey, each classroom selects a student to receive a pumpkin pie and whipped cream, with one lucky teacher receiving a pie as well. This fun twist keeps the spirit of the holiday alive while ensuring our local community remains engaged.
Community Involvement
Sobeys has been a dedicated supporter of this event for more than 25 years, demonstrating their commitment to the community. As Principal Nicole Blais mentioned, this tradition not only fosters a sense of belonging but also promotes local connections. Rusteika emphasized the joy that the turkey trot brings, stating, “It’s just supporting the community. We’re happy to be part of it and to see the joy it brings.” Their continued involvement illustrates the importance of local partnerships in maintaining cherished traditions.
The day commenced with a brief assembly, where new staff were introduced before heading outside to meet the “wild” turkeys. Unbeknownst to them, the turkeys were actually Grade 7 students, adding an element of surprise and humor. Following the chase, students and staff enjoyed a leisurely walk around the park, culminating in the highly anticipated pie draws.
A Day of Joy and Togetherness
The weather on the day of the event was nothing short of perfect for a Thanksgiving celebration: sunny yet cool. As students laughed and cheered while witnessing their teachers chase after the “turkeys,” it created a vibrant atmosphere filled with camaraderie and joy. The event showcased the beauty of community spirit, with everyone coming together to create lasting memories.
For those who missed the event or wish to relive the fun, the full video capturing the excitement of the turkey trot can be found on BorderPulse’s social media channels. As St. Joseph Elementary School continues to carry forward this cherished tradition, it highlights the importance of community connections and the pure joy found in shared experiences.
In conclusion, the turkey trot at St. Joseph Elementary is more than just a chase; it’s a beautiful representation of community spirit, collaboration, and the joy of togetherness as families prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving. As the years go by, events like these reinforce the values of unity and tradition, reminding us of what truly matters.