The Gazebo Gazette
LONG BEACH (GG) — In its 75 year history, Coast Episcopal School (CES) has built annual traditions that enrich the cultural, spiritual and academic foundation of each student who attend the Long Beach, Mississippi independent school. From daily chapel services to weekly Eucharist and blessings celebrations; Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Grandparents’ vocal and band programs to Bible Theater, Coast Episcopal School ensures its student body is surrounded by a community of faith.
One of the annual traditions will be observed on Thursday, December 11 when CES students re-enact Las Posadas, a 430+ year Mexican tradition that recognizes Joseph and Mary’s search for lodging prior to the birth of the Christ child. This somber procession through the school’s hallways includes several fruitless attempts to secure lodging until reaching the elementary school’s chapel, where the student -led entourage journey ends with the re-creation of the Nativity Scene.
This year, Coast Episcopal School will hold an Open House to enable prospective families to experience Las Posadas. According to Jake Winter, CES Head of School, “Each year, we have the opportunity to provide tours for many families who are considering our school as their children’s academic home. Our campus is unique in many ways: our devoted faculty, small class sizes, and the school’s focus on the arts and STEAM-curriculum as evidenced by the Gail Keenan Art Center and the Seemann Makerspace. Inviting prospective families to experience this celebration is a meaningful opportunity to show them, first hand, our school’s faith-filled heritage.”
Guests will arrive at 8 am to view Las Posadas and, at its conclusion, will meet administrators and staff for a coffee question and answer session followed by campus tours, which will be available until 11 am. Coast Episcopal School serves students from 18 months of age through sixth grade, and prospective families for the Early Childhood and Elementary School programs are encouraged to register HERE or by calling 228-452-9442.
Coast Episcopal School has been dedicated to a life-long love of learning by developing the whole child – mind, body and spirit – and providing a joyful, unique and nurturing Judeo-Christian Community that inspires its students to imagine and create a better world. Founded in 1950, CES is a member of the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS). For information: Coast Episcopal School, 5065 Espy Avenue, Long Beach, MS, 39560. 228-452-9442. Coastepiscopalschool.org
