BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C.–Since the 19th century, the jolly man in red suit and long, white beard has become synonymous with Christmas. We’re talking about Santa Claus, of course. Whether seen on TV or posing for the camera with kids at the mall, Ol’ Saint Nick is hard to miss around the holidays.
However, one place he won’t be this year is Sangaree Elementary School. According to PTA members, they recently opted to eliminate Santa from school holiday pictures. Instead, they say they will adopt a Winter Wonderland theme for class photos.
“This will allow children of all religious backgrounds to be able to participate,” the PTA posted via social media. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused and hope that you understand.”
According to Sangaree Elementary PTA members, this year’s Winter Wonderland theme will be mostly white to mimic snow.
“We will post a picture right here on our PTA Facebook page of the backdrop and props a few days before pictures start for you to see,” PTA members stated.
The news of the photo change quickly generated mixed reaction from parents. Some of them are disappointed by the move.
“This is disgusting and you should be ashamed of yourselves,” stated PJ Martin.
“What religious background does Santa promote? I thought he simply promoted toys, reindeer, chimneys, sleighs and happy children,” stated Rodney Travis.
Meanwhile, other parents support the PTA’s decision to remove Santa Claus from school photos.
“I think it’s a good idea that they do the Winter Wonderland theme instated of doing the Santa Claus, because everybody may not believe in that,” Dayami McCants told ABC News 4.
“I think that they’re just trying to make everybody happy. I don’t think they want to step on any toes religiously. So, I think that’s why they are probably changing it,” said Sangaree parent Amie Fletcher.
The legend of Santa Claus can be traced back hundreds of years to a monk named St. Nicholas. It is believed that Nicholas was born sometime around 280 A.D. in Patara, near Myra in modern-day Turkey. Much admired for his piety and kindness, St. Nicholas is said that he gave away all of his inherited wealth and traveled the countryside helping the poor and sick.
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