For over a decade, Turtle Creek School has come alive each March with the whimsical spirit of Mo the Leprechaun. What began as a fun, impromptu idea from Mr. Michael O’Leary, one of the dedicated teachers in the Woodland Hills School District, has now transformed into a beloved multi-day event that engages students of all ages.
The story of Mo the Leprechaun started bright and early on a St. Patrick’s Day morning when Mr. O’Leary donned a striking outfit—a white suit, a green button-up, and a classic top hat. His playful request for his wife, Jolene O’Leary, also a teacher at Turtle Creek, to tuck his pants into his socks marked the birth of a festive tradition. As Mr. O’Leary stepped into the classroom, he embraced his character with enthusiasm, instantly captivating the students' imaginations.
The inaugural visit ignited a spark among the students, who eagerly wanted more. Recognizing the positive response, the following year the event was transformed into a fundraiser for school activities. Students had the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for just $1, with the chance to shave Mo the Leprechaun’s beard live on stage—a thrilling spectacle for all involved. This initiative not only fostered excitement but also provided much-needed funds for events within the school.
As the years progressed, Jolene O’Leary—fueled by her passion for education and creativity—expanded the festivities, turning what was initially a single event into a series of fun-filled activities. Fast forward ten years, and the “Shave Me Beard” event has evolved into an integral part of Turtle Creek’s culture, shifting from a fundraiser to a “Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports” (PBIS) incentive. Students now earn tickets through displays of positive behavior, culminating in the annual assembly where one lucky student gets the chance to shave Mo's beard.
The celebration is not limited to beard shaving; it features crafts tailored for various grade levels, photo opportunities with the beloved leprechaun, and storytime sessions specifically for Pre-K through 2nd-grade students. The festivities also include school-wide scavenger hunts and an annual Leprechaun Trap contest, boasting around 100 entries each year. This assembly is more than just a gathering; it serves as a joyful celebration of perseverance, positive behavior, and St. Patrick's Day itself.
During the event, laughter fills the air as games are played, jokes are shared, and the students engage in what can only be described as “witty banter” in a supportive and fun environment. Thanks to generous contributions from the Partners in Education (PIE) and local families, the students are showered with an array of necklaces, glasses, shamrock stickers, gold coins, and other festive accessories.
Mo the Leprechaun has truly become a fixture in the Turtle Creek community, known affectionately as the building's celebrity during this one magical week each year. The spirit of St. Patrick’s Day at Turtle Creek encompasses fun, learning, and community-building, reminding students of the importance of positive behavior while engaging in the timeless magic of childhood wonder. Each year, as they celebrate with Mo, the students create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.