By Anna O’Mary and Reese Morrow

Each February, traditions such as candygrams are brought back for another year. Candygrams, a simple yet fun Valentine’s Day tradition, are small Valentine’s gifts students can pay for, which are then delivered to their chosen recipient. This year, the program previously run by Roll-Back was taken over by the Peer Leaders, who worked with Wildscats to offer two package options: Regular and VIP. The regular package cost $5 and was delivered by a Peer Leader; it included a customized note of the student’s choice and candy. The VIP package, priced at $15, had more candy and featured an acapella performance by the Wildscats. Students had the opportunity to choose the song, which were then performed by the Wildscats during B block classes on Tuesday, the 10th of February. 

From the senders to the recipients to the organizers, everyone is involved. A member of the Wildscats, Chiara Perkins ‘28 shared her opinion on performing through the VIP packages. She mentioned that she was “excited and think[s] this is a new fun idea expanding on the candygram tradition.” New ideas and additions to events such as these are a great way to help strengthen the school community by spreading kindness, school spirit, and connection — making Valentine’s season something everyone can enjoy.

Candygrams also transformed the meaning of Valentine’s Day from a romantic holiday to a way to show love and care to friends. By writing a kind letter or having the Wildscats perform a song, students spread love and laughter across the Pinkham Building. Additionally, Candygrams provided an opportunity for students to step outside of their usual routines and do something thoughtful for others. For many, receiving a candygram was a bright spot in the school day and a reminder that someone was thinking of them. Small gestures like these had a meaningful impact, especially during a busy and stressful school year.

In addition, events like candygrams allowed student groups such as the Peer Leaders and the Wildscats to collaborate and contribute to the school community in creative ways. By working together to organize deliveries and performances, these groups helped make candygrams more engaging and inclusive for everyone involved.

A recipient of a candygram from last year, Abigail Smith ‘28 remarked how much she enjoyed the gift. “It shocked me and I was so excited that I could even receive something like this,” she reflected. Her experience reflects the joy brought to students by these treats. She also noted how “adding new ideas and expanding on traditions like candygrams brings excitement to the brutal winter months, especially this year with all the snow and freezing weather.” 

Overall, candygrams continue to be a cherished tradition that brings joy to students and staff alike. Through simple acts of kindness, personalized messages, and musical performances, candygrams help create a positive and welcoming environment throughout the school. This tradition served as a reminder that kindness, friendship, and community are always worth celebrating.