The bell rings, signaling the beginning of lunch. As Carlmont students trickle out of their classes for lunch, many walk past C hall. These students notice a table stationed by the boys bathroom, covered in colorful squares of paper and manned by a few ASB students.
With the beginning of December comes the annual holiday grams sale, a Carlmont tradition.
Every year, students can pay one dollar to write a classmate, friend, or special someone a thoughtful note for the holidays. These notes can be signed or anonymous, and are handed out along with a candy cane to the recipients during fourth period on the Friday before finals.
Junior Class Vice President Brett Fitzpatrick, said: “The holiday grams make people feel good about themselves because they can get something from their secret admirer or best friend.”
The holiday grams sale is organized and facilitated by the junior class officers. Grams are sold during lunch from Nov.30 to Dec. 10.
According to Junior Class Vice President Ryan Geronimo, the money collected from the sales goes toward into the general school fund for the class of 2015, and will be used for future class activities.
The distribution of holiday grams is intended to spread holiday cheer throughout the campus and bring students closer together.
“It’s a good spirit activity as well as another way for students to interact,” said Geronimo.
A few hundred grams are sold each year, making it a popular fundraiser. Many students take advantage of the opportunity to put a smile on someone’s face.
Senior Annie Klups said, “The grams are a sweet gesture to send to your friends, and they get you in the holiday spirit.”
Holiday grams are unspecific to any particular religious holiday, and are merely meant as a way to spread happiness during the holiday season. Contrary to popular belief, grams are not reserved for use as a romantic message, but can also be given to friends, acquaintances, or even teachers.
As the stress of finals descends upon the student body, holiday grams provide a welcome reminder of the upcoming holidays.
