NDCL kicked off the season of gratitude with a campus-wide burst of color and cheer through its Thanksgiving “Gobble and Seek” event—an upbeat tradition-in-the-making that brought students together for a week of fun, reflection, and community.

Throughout the building, brightly colored paper turkeys were tucked into classrooms, hallways, and common spaces, turning the school into a low-stakes scavenger hunt. Students paused between classes, scanned corners, and teamed up with friends to locate the hidden birds. Each find offered more than bragging rights; students had the chance to win $10 Chick-fil-A cards, $5 Dunkin’ cards, and candy prizes, keeping the energy high all week.

Teachers joined the fun as well, dropping hints, encouraging search strategies, and adding a little extra holiday spirit to their lessons. What began as a lighthearted challenge quickly became a school-wide moment of connection.

But the heart of “Gobble and Seek” wasn’t the prizes. It was the gratitude it sparked. Students shared reflections on friendship, belonging, and the everyday kindness that makes NDCL feel like more than a school. Organizers say that was the point: to create space in a busy semester for students to slow down, appreciate each other, and celebrate the good woven into daily life.

The week ended with recognition for the top turkey-finders — Giselle Abounader, Jaiden Owens, and Ava Lewandowski [$5 Dunkin Donuts], but the real takeaway was the spirit of togetherness that filled NDCL’s halls.

Judging by the response, students are already hoping that “Gobble and Seek” earns a permanent place in NDCL’s Thanksgiving lineup.