Polar Express chugs through ECC

There was wall-to-wall excitement last Friday morning inside Johnston’s Early Childhood Center.
Although the ECC’s now famous Polar Express has been highly successful in its six pervious years, the seventh annual program – which was coordinated by Principal Keri Autiello, Steven Richards, George Paquette, Felicia Chonchio, Kim Marshall and the entire staff – may have been the most exciting ever.
“This is a very, very exciting morning for the ECC children,” said Superintendent of Johnston Schools Bernard DiLullo, who again provided his services as the Polar Express conductor. “Each year it’s a joy to see the excitement on the faces of the kindergarten students during this special seasonal program.”
Amid a wonderful backdrop of music played on the keyboard by George Paquette, Santa Claus made his annual visit to the ECC as children – who lined the first floor corridor – burst into excitement. Saint Nick made his way to a well-decorated North Pole, where he fielded numerous requests from the starry-eyed kindergarten kids.
Kids also enjoyed a surprise appearance of Disney’s famous snowman Olaf – who followed Santa Claus into the long corridor and offered a host of high-fives. Robert LaFazia, chairman of the Johnston School Committee, portrayed Olaf. DiLullo said LaFazia added a “wonderful and warm side to this year’s event.”
“Bob LaFazia is a valuable member of our school department family,” the superintendent noted.
The annual Polar Express, which was done in two sessions to accommodate each and every ECC student, also featured a sing-along, a one-on-one visit with Santa Claus and a reading of “The Night Before Christmas” prior to the children returning to their respective classrooms.
There was even a visit from Al Venditti, who used to play Santa Claus and volunteer at the ECC, wearing a smile on his face that may have been bigger and wider than those of the children.
“People here at the ECC love Al,” DiLullo offered after greeting Vendetti. “He loves all the children, too.”