By Pete Vasquez
Pvasquez@cherryroad.com

Parents and students gave thanks together celebrating the season of gratitude at the Benavides Elementary annual Thanksgiving Feast Thursday, Nov. 21. 

According to elementary school leader Mrs. Nancy Gonzalez this event has its tradition. 

“It’s always been a really good community event for this town to give thanks and have a warm meal with their children and grandchildren,” said Gonzalez.  

The Pre-K through fifth graders were looking forward to it days before. 

“Oh, my goodness! They were so thrilled for this turkey day, and I know our staff was also so happy to be part of this holiday feast,” Gonzalez said. 

The small community of Benavides has always had these beautiful events that bring families together. It’s sort of like a nostalgic feeling.  

“We try to give back to the community and open our doors to them, so they’ll be able share the moment with the students. It still hasn’t changed as much as in any other school district up north. Here it’s been more like ‘back in the day’ because we still have those tight knit family values in place,” added Gonzalez. 

She said it’s really wonderful to see all the families with the students because sometimes there are people that don’t have that chance. 

“Sometimes there’s families that don’t have that opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving because of life’s unexpected issues,” she said. 

The Thanksgiving Feast brought together students, families, teachers and friends for a special lunch filled with delicious food and warm company. Special thank you to the Nutrition Director Clarissa Pena and her staff members.