On December 17, 2014, three hundred Thomas Jefferson Elementary students visited various nursing homes and assisted living establishments in Valparaiso. The children sang holiday songs and prepared holiday treats for the patrons. This project continues to be a wonderful opportunity for the TJE staff and children to give back to the Valparaiso community. The trip provided a learning experience for all. Along with lasting educational value. Special thanks go out to Mrs. Laura Bryan, an outstanding first grade teacher at TJE. Mrs. Bryan is the visionary behind the idea and organized all of the materials, songs, permission slips, etc. that went into making this experience "The Gift of Giving Real" for our students and staff.