Two Paths to the North Pole: My Journey Through Two Santa Schools

Two Paths to the North Pole: My Journey Through Two Santa Schools

By Santa James

This fall, I had the joy of attending not just one, but two of the most incredible Santa Claus schools in the country, the Northern Lights Santa Academy in Atlanta, Georgia, and the Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School in Midland, Michigan.

Both are filled with good-hearted people who truly understand the magic of Christmas. Both are run by amazing leaders with great teams. And while they teach many of the same subjects, things like American Sign Language, working with special-needs children, storytelling, and the art of presentation, the feel of each school couldn’t be more different.

Each one touched me in a unique way, and together they reminded me just how deep and meaningful this Santa journey truly is.

The Northern Lights Santa Academy, A School That Runs Like Magic

My trip to Atlanta for the Fall 2025 session of the Northern Lights Santa Academy was exciting right from the start. You can tell the moment you walk in, this is a well-oiled sleigh!

Northern Lights feels like a true academy. There’s a clear schedule, a variety of class options, and an energy that keeps you moving from one great topic to the next. It’s like being at a professional conference, full of resources, business know-how, and a focus on helping Santas and Mrs. Clauses prepare for the season ahead.

Every instructor I met brought incredible passion to what they taught. You could feel their excitement as they shared not just information, but the love they have for this calling. We covered everything from business practices and contracts, to how to connect with children who communicate differently, to tips on photography, branding, and wardrobe.

But it wasn’t just about the classes. The best part was meeting so many fellow Christmas performers, Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and even a few elves — each one eager to share their experiences. We traded stories about magical visits, funny moments, and those heartfelt encounters that stay with you long after Christmas morning.

There’s something really powerful about sitting in a room full of people who get it, who understand that being Santa isn’t a job, it’s a ministry of joy. At Northern Lights, I felt surrounded by professionals who want to do this right, with heart, authenticity, and integrity.

By the end of that weekend, I left with pages of notes, a camera full of new memories, and a heart full of excitement for the season ahead.

The Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School, The Heart of Santa’s History

Just a short time later, I found myself driving north to Midland, Michigan, for the world-famous Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School — the oldest Santa school in the world.

This one feels completely different.

Where Northern Lights feels like an academy, Charles W. Howard feels like stepping into Santa’s living room. The warmth, the tradition, and the sense of legacy are everywhere. The school is now led by Tom and Holly Valent, and you can tell right away that this isn’t just a program, it’s a family tradition. Their passion shines through in everything they do, from the way they greet you to the care they put into every lesson.

Even their family members, Joe and the daughters play an important role. It’s not just a school; it’s a home for Santas. A place where generations have gathered to learn the spirit of Santa Claus, not just the skill of portraying him.

At C.W. Howard, we still learned practical things — how to interact with children, how to keep the suit looking sharp, how to manage events and storytelling, but the focus here was different. The classes dove deep into the heart of the Santa tradition. We talked about where Santa came from, how the story has evolved, and what it means to carry on this legacy in our modern world.

Walking through the Santa House in Midland was like walking through history. You can almost hear the laughter of Santas from years past. And when the lessons were done for the day, you’d find groups of Santas gathered together, swapping stories, sharing ideas, and encouraging one another.

A Banquet to Remember

The final night of the C.W. Howard School brought one of the most special experiences of all — the graduation banquet.

After days of learning, laughing, and bonding, this night felt like something truly historic. Sitting in that room, surrounded by so many brothers and sisters in red, there was a sense of honor in the air. The banquet wasn’t just a dinner; it was a celebration of everything that makes being Santa Claus so meaningful.

As we shared the meal and heard the final words of encouragement from Tom and Holly, I couldn’t help but think about all the Santas who came before us, all the men and women who have carried this tradition through generations. The school has been running since 1937, and being part of its 88th year was nothing short of incredible.

When the night ended, it felt like we had each become part of something far bigger than ourselves — a living story that will continue long after we’re gone.

Two Schools, One Mission

Looking back on these two very different experiences, I realized how beautifully they balance one another.

Northern Lights sharpened my tools, it reminded me how important it is to be professional, prepared, and ready for any event or challenge. It focused on the how of being Santa.

Charles W. Howard re-ignited my spirit, it reminded me why I do this. It filled my heart again with the wonder and responsibility that comes with portraying the world’s most beloved figure.

Together, they strengthened both sides of my Santa soul: the business and the belief, the skill and the spirit.

And while the lessons were invaluable, it was the people — the instructors, the organizers, and all my fellow Santas and Mrs. Clauses — who made the biggest impact. Listening to others share their stories, seeing their eyes light up as they described a child’s joy, reminded me again that this is more than a portrayal… it’s a calling.

What I Took Home

When I packed up my suit and headed home from Michigan, I carried with me more than knowledge.

I brought a renewed sense of purpose.
I brought friendships that will last for years.
I brought inspiration from passionate teachers who give so much of themselves to help others grow.
And I brought gratitude, deep, heartfelt gratitude, to be part of a community that believes in joy, kindness, and the magic of Christmas.

Both schools left me better than when I arrived. Both reminded me that being Santa isn’t just about the red suit or the beard, it’s about embodying hope, wonder, and love.

Until Next Time…

To my fellow Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and all who help keep the Christmas spirit alive, if you ever get the chance, go experience these schools for yourself. Each offers its own type of magic, and together, they’ll fill your sleigh with wisdom, heart, and unforgettable memories.

Until next time, my friends...stay jolly.

– Santa James