As we approach Veterans Day, it is essential to reflect on the significance of this occasion and express our deepest gratitude to the brave men and women who have selflessly served our nation. Veterans Day is a day of profound importance to honor and remember those who have sacrificed so much to protect our freedom.

At Oakwood Schools, we understand the importance of instilling values of gratitude and respect in our students. Veterans Day provides a valuable opportunity to teach our students about the sacrifices made by our military personnel and the enduring impact these sacrifices have on our nation.

First and foremost, Veterans Day is a day to express our gratitude to those who have served in the armed forces. These individuals have willingly placed themselves in harm's way, leaving the comfort of their homes and families to defend the principles upon which our great nation was founded. Their dedication and courage deserve our utmost respect and appreciation.  Veterans Day also serves as a reminder of the cost of freedom.  By understanding and acknowledging this, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rights and privileges that define our way of life.

As educators, we can impart these lessons to our students. Veterans Day offers an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about history, sacrifice, and the importance of civic duty. It allows us to foster a sense of patriotism and instill in our students a profound respect for those who have served and continue to serve in the military.  In Oakwood Schools, we are committed to creating an environment that honors our veterans on Veterans Day and throughout the year. By incorporating lessons about military service into our curriculum, hosting events that celebrate and recognize veterans, and instilling a sense of civic responsibility in our students, we contribute to the broader effort of nurturing informed and grateful citizens.

Today, I had the opportunity to visit a few of our schools holding programs for our Veterans.  At Harman School, students had the opportunity to bring in a guest who has served or is currently serving in the armed forces for breakfast. Then, we moved outside to observe a flag-raising ceremony and sign the National Anthem.  Afterward, we went inside for an all-school assembly filled with music and stories from students and staff members about the veterans they admire and why.

At Smith Elementary, parents, family members, staff members, and students gathered outside for a similar ceremony in raising the flag, reciting the pledge of allegiance, and sharing information about Veterans Day as well as stories about family members.

At Oakwood Junior High and Oakwood High School, I was invited to attend lunch for our students of military families.  It was good to connect with the students and have them share about family who are serving in the armed forces.  One student showed me a beautiful painting he created over the past month of his father in his service uniform holding his son.   The Junior High announced plans to create a Military Student Club, and the High School collected names of volunteers who would agree to buddy with a new student in the future whose family is serving in the military to help them transition to Oakwood.

Finally, the students at Lange School received the opportunity to hear from veterans who served or are currently in service and related to one of the students.  The veterans had the opportunity to share what they did while serving.  The students were able to learn more about the United States, the military, and history while also getting the chance to sing songs to the veterans in appreciation for their service.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all veterans, both within our community and across the nation. Your commitment to duty and love for our country inspires us all. May this Veterans Day be a time of reflection, appreciation, and unity as we honor those who have served.