If you have a student performing this season, chances are you’ve already made your plans. This goes out to the rest of you. Families are often advised that the best way to learn about a school is to attend an event like Open House or Back to School night. All true. But if you want to get a feel for a school community, or reaffirm your connection to your child’s school, nothing beats a winter evening listening to inspired, dedicated students sing, play or act. If you have a young child just starting out in school, spend an evening at your future middle or high-school. They’ll appreciate your presence and you’ll have a chance to see what lies ahead for your family.

Here’s a round-up of events taking place in Santa Cruz public schools in the coming weeks:

December 12

Soquel High Winter Choral Concert

7:30 p.m., Multi-purpose room, Soquel High School, 401 Old San Jose Road, Soquel

December 13

Mission Hill Middle School Winter Concert

7 p.m. Mission Hill, 425 King Street, Santa Cruz

Gault Elementary Craft Fair and Book Fair

6:30 p.m. Gault Elementary School, 1320 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz

December 14/15

The Crucible: A student-directed performance

7:00 p.m. 12/14 & 15; 12:30 p.m. 12/15, Santa Cruz High School Auditorium, 415 Walnut Avenue, Santa Cruz, $9.00 General Admission

December 20

Santa Cruz High Winter Concert

7:00 p.m. SCHS Auditorium, 415 Walnut Avenue, Santa Cruz