Resident Hilda Lambert and DeMello Elementary fourth grader Tiago Lameiro learned quite a bit about each other while designing paper Christmas tree ornaments at the Council on Aging on December 19.

“We found out we’re all Portuguese,” Lambert said. She talked about the going-ons at the Council on Aging to the curious Lameiro sitting next to her.

“I just love hanging around and talking with people here,” Lameiro added.

About 45 students from DeMello’s fourth grade Student Council walked the short distance to the Council on Aging to decorate ornaments with Dartmouth’s senior citizens. An annual tradition, the event also serves to bridge Dartmouth’s elementary school students with the town’s senior population.

“They are our neighbors, and the children are always willing to come to the senior center,” said Program Coordinator Nancy Miller.

As fourth grader Peter Herlihy decorated his tree, he talked to Violet Tracey about the work the Student Council does – including organizing DeMello’s Veterans Day assembly, and hosting a clothing and gift drive.

“Boy, don’t I wish we had that when I was in school,” Tracey said.

Students were treated to hot cocoa before heading back to school with their ornaments in hand.