In Warren County, secret Santas are more commonly seen with a welding torch.

The students in Nate McNett’s welding class in the Warren County Career Center have been playing Santa. They not only get to learn a trade, but are also helping kids in need at the Warren Area Elementary Center.

This will be the fifth year for the welding class’ Secret Santa program. Two classes participated in the program this year, helping a total of seven children within two families. They will begin distributing the gifts in the next couple of days to the children in need at the Warren Area Elementary Center.

With the help of Missy McNett, the guidance counselor and McNett’s wife, they find out what is needed, sizes etc. and made a list of the students in need of Santa’s assistance.

Afternoon class members, from left, are Garrett Winship, Amari White, Landon Pritzel, Braden Thomson, Ethan Colosimo, Gracelyn Freehling, Kendra Noe, Bella Oyola, Kaylee Weiser, Haden Foster, Nate McNett and Missy McNett.

“We go by a needs assessment and by teacher recommendation” Mrs. McNett said. “All of the lists are kept confidential.”

The only thing that the students know is if the person is a girl or boy, their sizes and their interests. Students pay for the gifts with their own money.

“This program teaches the students to give to others.” McNett said.