The last day of school before the holidays is always exciting for students.

At Centennial Middle School in the West Valley School District last week, not only did they get a fun concert, but they were reminded that they did something to help children in need this Christmas.

At their winter concert, representatives from the Marine Corps presented the school with a certificate for raising funds for Toys for Tots.

School counselor Tammy Rogers said students aren’t usually allowed to wear hats at school, but they had a special day recently when they could. Each student who wanted to wear a hat could buy permission for $1. The money collected always goes to a charity, she said, and this year it was Toys for Tots. About $100 was raised.

“It’s a quick way to raise some money,” Rogers said.

The students were then treated to performances by the school choir, which encouraged participation from the audience during an arrangement of “Jingle Bells,” the school orchestra, the jazz band and the full band.

After the concert, students participated in special activities. There were crafts, volleyball games and movies to watch before leaving for a couple of weeks to celebrate the holidays.