Santa visits the Joseph F. Cappello School

WEST WINDSOR » The Joseph F. Cappello School morphed into a version of Babes in Toyland yesterday as the Mercer County Chapter of the Sunshine Foundation presented Santa Claus. Santa Claus then distributed toys throughout the school followed by the annual coat offering by Knights of Columbus 355.

“We have the support of so many people who if they don’t give toys then they make a financial donation. They help us wrap. They help us get organized. It’s a major undertaking,” Cathy DiCostanzo, president of the Mercer County Chapter of the Sunshine Foundation, said. “But you know what, this Mercer County area is amazing. And don’t get me started with the teachers, administrators and support staff here at Cappello School. You don’t want to see me cry again.”

The Joseph F. Cappello School serves students between the ages of three and seven. The school missions to provide developmentally appropriate learning experiences for children classified while embracing a play-based learning environment that addresses both educational and therapeutic goals.

Kerri Hagan, a senior at The College of New Jersey, served as a Santa Helper. Hagan called wonderful her third consecutive visit.

“These kids are so excited and that makes this experience ever more special,” Hagan, who majors in deaf education, said.

Hagan said her five-year masters program curriculum gained inspiration from her grandmother, Irene, who is hearing impaired.

L..A. Parker is a Trentonian columnist. His daughter teaches at Cappello School.