KANOPOLIS — Fourth grader Brailyn Honomichl ran to her mom, embracing her in a big hug as her parents joined students Nov. 20 for the annual Thanksgiving Feast.

“I’ve been waiting the whole year to do this,” Honomichl said.

Her parents, Amelia and Charles Fosdick, joined more than 100 family members and guests for the annual event.

“I’m afraid they won’t like the made from scratch stuff,” Honomichl said.

Students participated in the meal preparation by helping with the corn bread and dessert, as well as prepping the vegetables for the beef stew.

“The feast is definitely something the students look forward to each year, just one of the things that makes fourth grade special,” fourth grade teacher Rebekah Tripp said.

She said the first feast was held close to 1975.

“From what we have learned, it started with a third grade class, Dorothy Gilkison, and then was carried on by Becky South,” Tripp said. “Alice Donley and Leslie Brooks were also key in continuing the feast.

“It went to a fifth grade tradition, and then as teachers changed and classrooms moved, it has become a fourth grade tradition.”

Tripp said she believes the menu has been constant from the beginning.

“The students contribute to the whole process, mixing, measuring, cutting and serving,” she said. “It is such a meaningful process, plus we get the added benefit of sharing this with family.”

Amelia Fosdick said she remembers the tradition from her grade school years.

“I was in the kitchen cutting onions,” she said of her experience.

“(Brailyn) was really hoping she didn’t have to cut onions this year.”

Her daughter lucked out. “My favorite part was cutting the potatoes because I cut really fast and never cut myself,” Honomichl said. “I wanted to help and see my parents during the school day so they could come eat with me.

“The best part is eating the food I made.”

Tripp said having school traditions that are outside of sports and academics is important.

“We know our parents will come for those; this is a whole different aspect for kids and their families,” she said. “It is so wonderful to see the kids watching for their family and friends, the light in their eye when they see them.

“They are so proud of what they have made and then have the opportunity to serve those that they love. It is one of the most meaningful lessons that we teach — serving, sharing and love for those around them.”

While the students help prepare the meal, Tripp said additional donations keep the event viable. Donors include Citizens State Bank & Trust Co., Josh and Jessica Homolka, Troy and Mary Soukup and beef from Green Garden Angus. Additionally, the City of Kanopolis donated the use of the Community Center.