Texas Border Business
MISSION, Texas – IDEA Mission bus driver John Curry surprised more than 600 students by dressing as Santa and delivering gifts during a campus-wide holiday celebration. The annual tradition is rooted in Curry’s deeply personal story and has become a meaningful moment of joy and hope for students and staff.
Curry first dressed as Santa in 2022 in honor of his late son, who lived just three days after being born with a congenital heart condition. During the baby’s brief life, he tugged on his father’s beard — a moment so meaningful that Curry has kept his beard uncut ever since. What began as handing out candy canes has grown into a cherished tradition at IDEA Mission. He now delivers joy along with his other son, who also attends IDEA.
This year, Curry expanded the effort into a full toy drive, gathering enough donations to ensure every IDEA Mission Academy student received a gift, while College Prep students participated in holiday activities, prize giveaways, and gift card raffles. The morning featured festive music, holiday attire, and joyful reactions from students across campus — creating strong visuals throughout the event.
“Some people can’t believe in themselves until someone else believes in them first,” said Curry. “The gift is just a vessel to deliver that message. One day, these children might need a little hope, and I want them to remember that someone believed in them.”
“Mr. Curry embodies what makes IDEA special — a heart of service and an unwavering belief in our students,” said Christina Cavazos Flores, Executive Principal at IDEA Mission. “This tradition has become a highlight of the season and a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on an entire community.”
Information source: IDEA Public Schools
