Michigan School District’s Snow Day Announcement Becomes a Viral Sensation
As winter sets in, snow days become a familiar occurrence in many northern regions. Schools across the country have embraced a creative trend, crafting amusing videos or songs to announce closures. Swartz Creek Community Schools in Michigan joined in on the fun, and their unique take has already amassed over a million views on YouTube.
Superintendent Ben Mainka and Principal Jim Kitchen took center stage in their video, wearing their school team gear as they addressed students and families. The announcement began with a serious tone, as Superintendent Mainka stated:
“I’d like to take a moment to share a brief video announcement. I’ve noticed a trend sweeping the nation—superintendents and administrators creating absurd songs, playing music, donning sunglasses, and making spectacles of themselves to announce snow day closures. It seems like we have…”
Before he could finish, the iconic piano intro of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” began playing softly in the background. Both Mainka and Kitchen appeared momentarily baffled. Mainka attempted to continue his serious message but soon found himself singing along: “I came across some news about a winter storm…”
Principal Kitchen quickly interrupted, exclaiming, “Hold on! Hold on! Let me emphasize—we will not embarrass ourselves by singing a snow day song!” Despite his protest, Mainka, clearly caught up in the melody, donned a pair of sunglasses and continued to sing while sharing updates about the storm. His voice turned out to be surprisingly impressive.
Not to be outdone, Principal Kitchen eventually joined in, slipping on sunglasses and harmonizing with Mainka. Together, they sang updates about the snow day to the tune of “Hallelujah,” crafting lyrics like, “It’s a snowy day, a chilly winter day. Relax at home and enjoy some gaming. It’s a wonderful day for the family.”
In the spirit of fun, Superintendent Mainka reminded everyone to stay safe while adding a note of responsibility: “This winter storm will pass quickly; please try not to sleep ‘til noon. Help your parents around the house—they’ll appreciate it!”
The duo wrapped up their performance with a heartfelt message urging students and families to stay cozy and safe. Their entertaining and well-sung rendition struck a chord with viewers, showcasing the school’s lighthearted and positive culture.
Swartz Creek Community Schools has undoubtedly set the bar high for snow day announcements, and their video proves that a little creativity and humor can go a long way in bringing joy to the community.
In northern regions, snow days are common during winter, and many schools are embracing creative ways to announce them through humorous videos or songs. Swartz Creek Community Schools in Michigan joined this trend with a video that has already surpassed a million views on YouTube. Superintendent Ben Mainka and Principal Jim Kitchen, dressed in their school team attire, deliver an entertaining snow day announcement for students and families.
Mainka begins on a serious note, criticizing the nationwide trend of superintendents making comical songs to announce school closures. However, as the iconic tune of “Hallelujah” plays softly in the background, he can’t resist joining in with his own impromptu melody. Although Principal Kitchen initially tries to stop him, the duo eventually embraces the moment, using the song to share updates about the impending storm and encourage everyone to stay safe and warm.
Mainka also uses the opportunity to encourage students to help their parents and make the most of their time at home, as the storm is expected to pass quickly. The performance wraps up with a heartfelt reminder for everyone to remain safe and cozy. This delightful rendition, paired with impressive vocals, highlights the school’s sense of humor and positive spirit, making the announcement both memorable and enjoyable.
