DES Boarding Newsletter Thumbnail – December 12, 2025

Greetings from Vaill Hall

We are excited about the upcoming holiday season. We can't wait for the students to enjoy all the activities we have prepared for them.

Activities

Vaill Hall: The students enjoyed a Thanksgiving dinner with the staff. They also enjoyed dorm parties filled with pizza, ice cream and games. It was a warm and memorable way to begin their holiday break.

Deaf elementary girls with staff member during Thanksgiving Dinner.

1 West/Annex South: Made paper chain ornaments to decorate the dorm. It helped everyone get into the holiday spirit and make the space feel festive.

Boys holding decorated pine cones.

2nd West: Took a field trip to Chick-fil-A, where they met an employee who knows ASL. This made their experience even more memorable and meaningful.

Four girls outside of Chick-Fil-A.

2nd North: They started decorating their dorm for the holidays. The students were excited to make their space feel festive for the holiday season. They also learned to make their own keychains using plastic string.

Boys making keychains.

Annex South: They learned how to fold grocery bags neatly for reuse. It was a simple but useful skill that helps keep things organized and reduces waste.

Boys folding plastic bags into triangles.

Notices

Please be sure to pack appropriate clothing for the weather.