St. Paul CES Shines Bright at the Norwood Santa Claus Parade

Dec. 4, 2025

For the first time ever, St. Paul Catholic Elementary School proudly entered a float in the Norwood Santa Claus Parade — and the results were nothing short of spectacular.

When the invitation arrived, staff saw the parade as a meaningful opportunity to build on one of this year’s key goals: strengthening the sense of Belonging among students. What followed was a true community effort that brought families, staff and students together in joyful collaboration.

The St. Paul CES Catholic School Council co-chair generously provided the trailer, and her husband not only volunteered to drive but also constructed a sturdy wooden frame for the float, painting it in festive red and green. Two more families donated straw bales for seating, while many others contributed decorations to bring the float to life.

Behind the scenes, the school’s Grade 7/8 teacher supported a Grade 8 Parade Committee who organized donations, tested lights and developed a decorating plan. The day before the parade, students transformed the 50-foot trailer into a magical Christmas display.

With more than 300 students at St. Paul CES, deciding who would ride the float was no small task. Ultimately, all Grade 8 students — along with the top three classes from our recent Catholic School Council fundraiser — were invited to take part.

“I wasn’t sure what to expect, how it would all come together or what the turn out would be, but I couldn’t be more proud of our school!  It came together beautifully, the float covered with lights, decor, a Christmas tree lit up and a blow-up Santa,” said Jennifer Wright, Principal.  “Approximately 75 students, some family members and staff, covered the float!  It was a great turn out.”

The float sparkled with lights, decorations, a glowing Christmas tree and an inflatable Santa, while students waved to the crowd, sang carols through the loudspeaker and wished a “Merry Christmas” to everyone along the route.

The evening ended with a brilliant fireworks display — but the celebrations didn’t stop there. The next morning, the Norwood Legion announced that the St. Paul CES float had been awarded first place in the parade.

“We are already looking forward to this becoming an annual St. Paul CES tradition,” Wright said.