Students stepped into the St. Joseph’s Indian School gym and were met with a burst of color that felt almost impossible for February. Paper palm trees rustled in the warm air, the scent of popcorn drifted across the room and the commotion of carnival games echoed off the walls. For a moment, winter didn’t feel so sharp. It was I Hate Winter Day! And, for one day, summer fun set in …
Hate?! In this context, it’s a word used all in good fun — a playful jab at the long, frigid months that seem to stretch on forever. This tradition began years ago during a winter that felt especially long. What started as a simple attempt to break up the cold season for our Lakota (Sioux) students, has grown into something they now eagerly anticipate. Each year looks a little different, but the heart of I Hate Winter Day remains the same: bring joy, bring warmth and remind students even the coldest months can hold moments of fun.
I Hate Winter Day gives everyone a chance to reset — to laugh, to move and simply enjoy being together.
“Sometimes a break from the regular classroom rigor is a good refresher for both students and staff,” said Beth, St. Joseph’s Assistant Principal.
This year’s celebration transformed the school into a beach boardwalk carnival. Students received 15 tickets to explore 12 different games, each offering small prizes and big smiles. Slushies that stained lips purple and a salty popcorn snack added to the summer vibes. A coloring contest invited every grade, and even adults, to join in. A beach‑themed craft also challenged students to create ocean‑inspired art on paper plates, canvases or wooden rounds. Hawaiian shirts brightened the halls, and the cafeteria joined the fun with a themed meal.
The joy was unmistakable. Students darted from game to game, laughing with friends and cheering each other on. But one of the most meaningful parts of the day came from the adults. Staff from departments across campus volunteered to run the games, many of them interacting with students they rarely get to see. Watching those connections captured exactly what the day is meant to spark … togetherness.
In the end, the hope and purpose behind this fun-filled day is simple. We want students to feel seen. We want them to know we understand how long winter can feel, and that we’re committed to making their days brighter. We want them to remember they are surrounded by people who care, not just in their classrooms, but across the entire campus community.
Philámayaye — thank you — to our wonderful supporters who make days like this possible at St. Joseph’s Indian School. Thank you for helping bring warmth, connection and a little bit of summer to the heart of winter.
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