Each year, Sam Boardman Elementary hosts a special Veterans Day celebration, bringing together students, staff, and local veterans to honor those who have served our country. This tradition has been going strong for over 18 years!
This year, Veterans and their families were invited to enjoy a concert, a short reading by third-grade students, and a reception in the school cafeteria afterward. Veterans are also given challenge coins of appreciation from our students, making the day extra meaningful for all involved.
A Community Tradition
The event is an important part of the school’s community. It is a great experience for our local Veterans, who truly deserve to be recognized, and for the students as well.
Our celebration helps students understand the significance of Veterans Day and the sacrifices made by those who have served. Vice Principal Sarah Christy shares, “Educating students about why we honor Veterans is so important. By doing so, students can continue to carry that patriotic spirit with them throughout their lives.”
How the Event Comes Together
A lot of hard work goes into making this event happen each year. Music teacher Skylar Madrigal is in charge of organizing the concert, which includes selecting and arranging the songs and any choreography, or dancing. Around the same time, a committee of teachers meets weekly to plan every detail, from setting up the event to creating lessons about Veterans Day for each grade level. Students also get involved by helping decorate the school entrance and with their performances.
In addition to the school’s activities, students in Mrs. Connell’s third-grade class were invited to create banners and flags to show appreciation for Veterans for a local restaurant. These were displayed inside Burntfield Brewery, in Boardman. When students see their own artwork in the same place that they live, it helps them feel connected to and proud of their town.
Thank You to Our Community Partners
The event wouldn’t have been possible without the support from our local partners and community members. Sam Boardman Elementary would like to extend a special thank you to:
Brown House Coffee in Heppner, OR, for providing delicious coffee.
The Riverside Junior/Senior High Key Club for helping with baked goods and snacks.
Marie Shimer at Morrow County School District for assistance with securing funds through a Community Engagement Grant
Community Volunteers for displaying the Missing Man Table
How to Get Involved
Sam Boardman Elementary’s Veterans Day celebration is a community effort, and the school invites others to join in next year. If you are interested in volunteering or contributing to next year’s event, please contact Vice Principal Sarah Christy.