Woodland District 50 Students to Honor Military Veterans
Gurnee-Students at Woodland District 50 schools will be honoring veterans during the school day on Monday, November 12, the day after the official Veterans Day observance on Sunday, November 11.
Students at all Woodland schools will have the opportunity to reflect and understand the significance of this day.
"Every individual who served in the military, both past and present, deserves our admiration and honor for their sacrifice. The Veterans Day observance at Woodland schools provides us with opportunities to teach our children about how these heroes help shape our country," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joy A. Swoboda.
There will be displays at Elementary East, Elementary West and Intermediate schools featuring photos and information about employees or family members who have served or are serving in any branch of the military in active duty, reserves or in a National Guard unit.
A sampling of activities taking place at each school includes:
Woodland Primary School:
Sarah Baier, the Woodland Primary music teacher, has planned a special ceremony honoring Veterans and educating our youngest students on what a veteran is. The ceremony is on Monday, November 12 at 10:00 a.m. and will be held at the flagpole in front of Woodland Primary. An original song written by Ms. Baier will be performed by our kindergarten students and all Primary families are invited as well as any family members who have served our country. They have been encouraged to wear their service uniform.
Woodland Elementary West
With assistance from members of the Gurnee American Legion, more than 44 family members of students who are former or current military service members will be participating in a Veterans Day celebration assembly featuring a video tribute and singing of "America" starting at 9:00 a.m. A local girl scout troop will lead those in attendance in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
Woodland Elementary East
A military color guard will raise the flag outside of the school and more than 800 students plus staff will join them in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at 8:55 a.m. From 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., military personnel from the U.S. Navy will be dressed in uniform and visiting classrooms throughout the day to speak to children about the importance of various jobs in the military, plus take questions from children. The Art Department made banners welcoming our military veterans and the Physical Education Department will be playing a game called Battleship which our guests have taken with them to use as a team building activity at Naval Station Great Lakes.
Woodland Intermediate
Student leaders and staff will be celebrating active-duty military and veteran family members from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. with a continental breakfast. Students will sing "The Star-Spangled Banner" and read thank you notes aloud.
Woodland Middle
Students will participate in team activities related to Veterans Day and its meaning plus there will be displays throughout the hallways recognizing those who serve in the military.