Independence Local Schools students and staff came together on November 11 to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Through patriotic music, student presentations, artwork and special activities, students across the district expressed their gratitude for the service and sacrifices of our nation’s veterans.
At Independence Primary School, students in kindergarten through fourth grade welcomed veterans and their families for a special Veterans Day program. The morning provided an opportunity for students to recognize the importance of military service while personally thanking veterans in their families and community.
The program featured patriotic songs performed by each grade level, along with a special video created by Instructional Technology Teacher Kerry Morosko featuring heartfelt messages of appreciation from students. Patriotic artwork created by students was displayed throughout the school, adding to the celebration and honoring the visiting veterans.
Third- and fourth-grade Student Council members played an important role in the morning’s activities, helping facilitate the program and serving breakfast to veterans and their families. Members of the school’s Kiwanis Club K-Kids also participated by creating special handmade crafts for visiting veterans to take home as a reminder of the students’ appreciation.
At Independence Middle School and Independence High School, students and staff gathered for a joint Veterans Day assembly featuring student speakers, musical performances and a special guest whose career has been dedicated to service and exploration.
Retired U.S. Army Colonel and NASA astronaut Douglas Wheelock served as the guest speaker, sharing his experiences and providing students with an opportunity to hear from someone who has served his country both in the military and through the nation's space program.
Middle school students in grades five through eight contributed to the program by sharing poems, personal reflections and projects developed in their English language arts classes. Their presentations, which included a living museum project, encouraged students to explore the meaning of Veterans Day and reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served.
Music was also an important part of the assembly, with performances by the Independence High School Band and Choir, including a joint musical selection. Student speakers from the high school also participated in the program, offering messages of gratitude and recognition for veterans.
The joint assembly brought middle and high school students together for a shared experience centered on patriotism, service and appreciation for the nation's veterans.
Through these Veterans Day programs, Independence Local Schools provided students of all ages with meaningful opportunities to learn about military service, reflect on the sacrifices made by veterans and express their gratitude to those who have served.
The district extends its sincere appreciation to all veterans, especially those who joined students and staff for this year's celebrations, for their courage, dedication and service to our country.
