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ORDCA Students Connect Beyond the Classroom at Bend’s Holiday Parade

Stories & Spotlights
A woman wearing glasses, a blue school cap, and a jacket poses next to a child, who is also wearing the blue school cap, and is holding up a piece of artwork.

Destinations Career Academy of Oregon students recently traded their online classrooms for a festive celebration as they gathered in person for the annual Bend Holiday Parade. This year’s theme, “A Storybook Christmas,” set the stage for a lively, colorful experience that gave ORDCA students a chance to connect with classmates from across the state.

A hand is holding a certificate of participation for one of the schools involved in the 2026 Bend Christmas Parade

Held on Saturday, December 6, the parade brought together students and families for an afternoon of community and holiday cheer. For many, it was a rare and happy opportunity to engage in a large in-person event while representing their school publicly. The parade embraced families of all traditions, offering a welcoming environment for those who celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Yule, Las Posadas, or other seasonal observances.

To prepare, ORDCA students participated in a hands-on art workshop earlier in the month at the Salem Multicultural Institute. Organized by the National Art Honor Society and the PTO, students crafted storybook-inspired props, from whimsical characters to oversized books, using paint, fabric, glitter, and paper-mâché. The workshop also offered time for conversation, treats, and collaboration, helping students build meaningful connections outside the digital space.

Executive Director, Carrie Quinn, described the workshop as a highlight of the season, noting how powerful it is to see online students’ bond in person. “When our students gather like this, it brings our community to life in a way that enriches everything we do,” she said.

A man and a boy, both wearing blue school caps, stand next to each other holding up their homemade creations at the 2026 Bend Christmas Parade.

On parade day, students proudly carried their handmade props while marching through Downtown Bend. Even those unable to attend enjoyed the art workshop and the chance to contribute to the parade preparations.

ORDCA remains committed to offering students opportunities beyond the online classroom, from career exploration trips and campus partnerships to whale-watching excursions and outdoor learning days. The holiday parade served as yet another reminder of how strong the community is, both on and off the screen.

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