Elf (elf) n., pl. elves. (elvz). 1. A diminutive being in a folklore given to mischievous interference in human affairs. 2. A small or mischievous person, esp. a child.
Four feet tall, bells jingling from curly toed shoes, pointed ears, tree houses: the classic elf. North Pole residents, Santa Claus’s helpers, Keebler cookie bakers: the classic elf. World of Warcraft, Lord of the Rings, Will Ferrell, Legend of Zelda: the classic elf. Razor sharp, almond-shaped eyes, angular facial features, skilled with bows, forest dwellers: the classic elf.
A different kind of elf inhabits the halls of LHS, however. With a black sharpie as his or her choice of weapon and poster board as his or her target, this elf aims to brighten the days of teachers and staff. This elf leaves encouraging notes on the doors of teachers and other staff members – all while sealing his or her identity by signing the messages as “the Educational Elf”.
“I think it was nice that they did that for the teachers,” said Dru Zolman, senior. “I’ve never seen that done before, and it was kind of fun to read all of them.”
The “Educational Elf” slipped away from its usual duties and lurked the halls throughout the night. His or her goal: to inspire teachers. The Elf adorned every faculty members’ door with a special stocking (door) stuffer – or rather, a personalized, handwritten note.
“It’s pretty cool that someone would take the time to do that for the faculty,” said Jason Brudie, junior. “It kind of seemed like they ran out of ideas, though.”
Although some notes appeared to be rather repetitive, the Elf still allotted time out of his or her own busy night to acknowledge teachers. “I think it’s really cool that someone recognized the teachers and took their time to write all those posters,” said Troy Zolman, sophomore.
Many students marveled at the Elf’s creation, and wondered how a single being produced such selfless work in such a short period of time. “Whoever did it got every staff member and did it overnight,” said Taylor Altman, junior.
The Educational Elf still refuses to accept the gratitude by releasing his or her identity to the public. However, students and staff members definitely notice the Elf’s work. “I have no clue who it is,” said Dave Cornelia, algebra instructor, with a puzzled look. “My guess would be Mrs. Johnson. My wife thinks that’s who it is, also.”
The teacher’s appreciation remained evident. Many teachers still display their “gifts” on their door.
Britt Nelson
-Feature Editor
