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The sweet smell of fresh churros and lively music set the tone for the evening as students, staff, and families came together during Columbia Middle School’s Fiesta de Ugly Sweaters on December 12, filling the campus with energy, laughter, and school pride.
Earlier in the day, Columbia Middle School hosted its second Eat & Greet of the school year during the lunch period, an engagement opportunity designed to welcome parents and guardians onto campus to share a meal with their students. Families were invited to bring food from home or enjoy cafeteria offerings together, creating a relaxed and meaningful way to connect during the school day. Lunch was extended to allow additional time for connection, with staff joining students and families throughout the campus.
“This was an incredible day for our school,” Columbia Middle School Principal Daniel Poo said. “The turnout showed what is possible when parents, students, and our community come together. We are grateful to everyone who supported the event, from donating auction items to helping make the evening celebration possible, and we are excited for more Eat & Greets and opportunities to connect as a school community in 2026.”
A silent auction also took place during the day and continued into the evening, with families and staff bidding on items generously donated by the community, including restaurant gift cards, pastries and cookies, art museum passes, and sports packages featuring the San Jose Sharks and San Francisco Giants.
The day flowed seamlessly into Fiesta de Ugly Sweaters, a high-energy community celebration featuring food and various sweet treats, a DJ, and a folklórico performance by Los Alebrijes, Columbia Middle School’s folklórico group. Showcasing three northern-style dances known for their upbeat music and energetic footwork, the performance drew strong applause and helped create the largest turnout of the year, carrying an energetic, festive atmosphere throughout the evening.
“I love being part of folklórico,” said Columbia Middle School seventh-grader and Los Alebrijes member Balam Celaya. “Seeing people dancing and cheering while we performed felt really good, and I’ve made a lot of friends through the program. I also want to give a shout-out to our teacher, Mr. JP, for being such an amazing teacher and supporting us. I’m excited for more performances and events like this.”
Superintendent Gudiel R. Crosthwaite, Ph.D., joined district leaders and staff in connecting with families and students, taking part in the celebration and experiencing the student performances throughout the evening.
“This event captured what makes Sunnyvale School District so special,” Crosthwaite said. “Bringing families together, celebrating student talent, and honoring culture creates meaningful experiences that strengthen our schools. The performances were outstanding, and the joy throughout the evening was unmistakable. Thank you to everyone who helped make this celebration possible.”