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Elementary students brighten Winfield with first-ever holiday caroling
Young voices light up Main Street and Sunrise Terrace with Christmas cheer
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
WINFIELD — The holiday spirit was in full swing on Dec. 17 as Winfield-Mt. Union elementary students ventured to various locations throughout Winfield to do exactly as Buddy the Elf encouraged when he said, “The best way to spread holiday cheer is singing loud for all to hear!”
WMU Music Instructor Lindsey Pogmore teamed up with elementary teacher Jill Townsley to take two groups of students around town to locations such as Sunrise Terrace Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, city hall and Casey’s to spread joy through music in their first-ever caroling event. Originally slated for Dec. 13, the outing was postponed due to inclement weather but proved worth the wait when they headed out Dec. 17.
The inspiration for the event came from Pogmore's desire to keep beloved holiday traditions alive while preparing for a new combined Kindergarten through 12th grade winter concert scheduled for January.
“We didn’t want kids to miss out on some of the familiar songs that they ask to sing every year,” Pogmore said. “So, we thought caroling would be a great way to make sure those traditions are kept alive while also doing something meaningful for the community.”
The students delivered festive favorites such as “Jingle Bells,” “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” “Up on the Housetop,” and “We Wish You a merry Christmas.” Their cheerful renditions delighted listeners at every stop.
Pogmore reflected on the decision to try something new this year, saying, “We’ve never done this before, and honestly, we weren’t sure what to expect. But the response from the community was so heartwarming. It’s such a simple thing, but it made a big impact.”
The students’ performances earned praise from many in the community.
“They spread some cheer at Sunrise Terrace Nursing & Rehabilitation Center,” Cindy Beard shared on Facebook. “Our residents and staff enjoyed them!”
The joy extended beyond the care center.
“Thank you for doing this! They brought so many smiles!” Rhonda Connop commented.
Even those not residing or working in Winfield found the caroling delightful.
“We were in Winfield yesterday afternoon and able to hear them. Was great!” Cathy Lauderdale stated.
For Pogmore, the event’s highlight was seeing the students share their love of music with the town.
“Oh man, the best part was just seeing the kids embrace the idea and watching how much joy they brought to people,” she said. “Music is such a powerful way to connect, and this event reminded me why we do what we do.”
The weather, fortunately, cooperated for the rescheduled date, much to Pogmore’s relief.
“We are very glad there was good weather for it — it would have been maybe a shorter adventure if there was snow or ice,” she said with a laugh.
As the students’ voices echoed through Winfield, they brought more than just songs — they brought unity, joy, and the true essence of the holiday season. This first attempt at caroling proved to be a memorable experience for students and listeners alike, laying the groundwork for what may become a cherished annual tradition.
“This was such a fun way to try something different,” Pogmore said. “We want to keep finding ways to share music with the community, and this was a wonderful start.”
From Sunrise Terrace to Main Street, Winfield was filled with holiday cheer, thanks to the efforts of these talented young carolers and their dedicated teachers.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
