By Lindsey Piper

Staff Reporter

Many children go without presents each Christmas.

To make many children’s Christmas truly merry, each year the high school participates in the Giving Tree, a tree that holds anonymous children’s names that a student can sponsor and provide a gift for.

The Giving Tree started in the spring of 1986 with the KLASS (Kids League After School Special) Club. The group was started by seniors to emphasize positive points of the senior class.

In 2002, it fell into a hiatus because it became more difficult to participate in because so many students worked. In 1987, a former student suggested the Giving Tree. It became such a success that more and more names were added to the tree.

“I am so blown away by all the beautiful presents,” said Deb Takatsuka, who is in charge of the program with husband Alan Takatsuka. “Students are so wonderful, and we have a lot of fun.”

Students simply need to take a name from the tree and purchase the gift for the child. They then bring it to room 15 unwrapped.

The Salvation Army will then make an appointment with the families so they can receive the gift.