Summit Elementary PAC Encourages Sustainable & Equitable Gift Giving with Green Christmas Market

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Story provided by Chelsea Isenor, Director of Communications and Board Administration

Last week, the Summit Elementary School Parent Advisory Council (PAC) kicked off the holiday season with their annual Green Christmas Market—a beloved school tradition that brings joy to students and families while promoting sustainability.

The idea for the Green Christmas Market started four years ago when a parent brought forward the idea based on a similar event they had planned at another school. The event has grown into a popular annual holiday event for both parents and students at Summit Elementary and has even spread to other SD73 schools.

Breanna Clive from the Summit PAC shared, "We just love the look on the kids' faces when they find the perfect gift. It’s nice to have a moment where they're thinking about other people. Young kids can be more focused on ‘what do I want for Christmas?’ so to have a time when they think about their family is important. And when they come up to have their gifts wrapped and they're showing you everything they got—they're so excited”

For the past several weeks, PAC members have been collecting gift donations from the community and storing them in their garages. On Thursday, December 11, the PAC transformed the school gym into a festive marketplace. Students visited the market in the classes throughout the day and were able to buy a present for each of their immediate family members.

The students took their time exploring all the donated treasures to find the perfect gifts for their mom, dad, and siblings (and sometimes grandparents, aunts and uncles too). Gift items included everything from puzzles and books to toys and stuffed animals, jewelry and beauty products, as well as Christmas decorations.

One member of the PAC shared, "I think everybody loves getting rid of old stuff but also being able to give it a new life. The kids love it. And the parents get a hoot out of it because the stuff that comes home is hilarious. My kids remember what they bring me and then I can't get rid of it.”


After selecting and paying for their perfect gifts, PAC members wrap the students' items to ensure they remain a surprise until Christmas. No student is left out, as green Christmas “credit card” vouchers are provided for any student who needs it.

Summit Principal Jennifer Boyle shared, “It's such a good event. The kids are so proud when they can say, ‘I bought that under the tree.’ They look forward to this all year long.”

The Summit Elementary Green Christmas Market does more than just spread holiday cheer and generate excitement, it reflects the District’s core values of Equity and Sustainability—creating a holiday tradition that celebrates generosity and care for the environment and community.