Sixty years of tradition gone. This year, the Hoover Parent Teacher Association (PTA) will not be hosting Tour of Homes due to the lack of residents willing to give their homes up for tour. This led PTA to think of a festive and unifying event that felt right for Hoover.

PTA President Ibet Acevedo said they “wanted to have a holiday themed event” that would show off “our beautiful school.” It was also important to host an affordable event on campus that would make it easier for more students, families and staff to attend. After the loss of money (that would normally have been made at concessions during the football games), it was necessary to raise much needed funds to still provide school-wide programs and senior scholarships. Finally, their goal was to bring our entire community together to promote unity.

Although this is not the first time Tour of Homes has been cancelled, the last time being in 2000, it has affected students. Each year California Scholarship Federation (CSF) members volunteer to guide the tours. CSF President Rebekah Alfred (’19) said that “it’s disappointing that we won’t be doing it this year but I’m looking forward to this new PTA event.” Instead of Tour of Homes, they will be volunteering at the Holiday Tea.

The PTA Holiday Tea and Boutique will be held this Saturday, December 8th from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the lower quad. There is no fee to visit and only $10 for the tea (a traditional tea consisting of tea sandwiches, scones, fruit and tea).

Tickets should be purchased in advance in the Hoover office. There will be multiple vendors selling all kinds of goods, including holiday gift items, fine jewelry, handmade essential oils soaps, Christmas ornaments, make-up, skin care, and artwork. There will be a Silent Auction with items, services and gift cards donated by local businesses. There will be student musical performances throughout the day as well as student led tours of Hoover. The event is also scheduled to coincide with Hoover Drama Department’s production of The 39 Steps, which will have a 2:00 p.m. and a 7:00 p.m. performance. PTA and event organizers hope that this will be a wonderful event for our entire Hoover community and help heal our campus.