By Mariah Mann

The Hampton Christmas Tea Party has been a tradition at Oyler School for many years. Not only has it shaped the students in numerous of ways, it has also shaped the mentors. The School has mentors who have been tutoring students for almost 20 years. Longtime Hampton Room Director Wanda Neville, who retired two years ago, began the Hampton Tea Party some 15 years
Ago.

Two high school students who have experienced the Hampton Tea Party, Juniors James Sweet and Romale Lewis, shared their experience. “The Hampton Tea Party was always a good time and everyone loved it.” James said. He claimed that he remembers his mentors from years ago. Romale also shared his experience and said, “I always had fun dressing up with my mentor and eating the cookies.” Today, the Hampton Tea Party still goes on. Pictures of the mentors and former students line the walls of the Al Hampton room. The Hampton Tea Party was always more than a party. Now it’s a tradition that goes on and on, spreading Christmas cheer and blessing students with time, presents, and fun.