The Office of the Lieutenant Governor and Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker of the Connecticut State Department of Education are pleased to announce that ornaments designed at the Andover Elementary School in Andover, Connecticut were featured as one of the 56 schools across the country at the 2021 National Christmas Tree display on the Ellipse in President’s Park.
These unique ornaments will adorn 56 smaller trees that surround the National Christmas Tree. Each tree represents a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia as part of the annual America Celebrates ornament program.
“Only 56 schools around the country were chosen for this opportunity, and these Andover Elementary School students were able to share their artistic talents with the world at our country’s capital,” said Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz. “I’m thrilled that these students were able to participate in this incredible annual tradition, and I cannot wait to see what Connecticut community has the opportunity to be showcased next year.”
“Creating ornaments for the National Christmas Tree display provides students with excellent opportunities to learn more about Connecticut and express themselves artistically,” said Commissioner Russell-Tucker. “We are so proud of Andover Elementary School students’ participation in the America Celebrates ornament program and look forward to future years.”
“I was beaming with pride when I saw the Connecticut tree behind the White House,” Superintendent Valerie Bruneau said. “As spectators stopped to take pictures, I was glowing as we shared our 24 ornaments. Each one is a little masterpiece. A little piece of small-town Andover to share with the world.”
“I am extremely proud that Andover Elementary School was selected to represent the whole state of Connecticut,” Andover Elementary Principal John Briody said. I appreciate all of the efforts and hard work of the students as well as Jessica Waine, our fabulous art teacher.
The tradition of the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse began with President Calvin Coolidge over 90 years ago, when he lit a 48-foot Balsam Fir from Vermont decorated with 2,500 electric bulbs in red, white, and green on Christmas Eve in 1923. Today, the tree lighting remains a beloved holiday event in Washington, D.C.
The America Celebrates ornament program is a collaboration of the National Park Service (NPS), the U.S. Department of Education and the National Park Foundation (NPF). The U.S. Department of Education worked through state art and education offices, which identified elementary, middle and high schools to participate in the America Celebrates program.
See National Parks Service Full Press Release Here
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For Immediate Release: Friday, December 10, 2021
Contact: Chelsea Neelon