Veterans and their contributions to America were the subject of essays, art projects, musical presentations, class discussions and a host of other activities throughout Alachua County Public Schools in the weeks leading up to Veterans Day.

Schools throughout the district found many ways to honor veterans and to teach students about the significance of Veterans Day. Those lessons crossed all grade levels and subject areas, with many schools taking a multi-disciplinary approach to the subject. 

At Metcalfe Elementary School, for example, regular classroom teachers taught the students about the various branches of the military and their responsibilities. In music classes, students learned the songs of each branch and other patriotic music, and the art teacher used that topic as a theme for art projects during the first two weeks of November.

Throughout the district, teachers incorporated units about veterans and freedom into their lesson plans. The goal, said Hawthorne High School principal Robert Craig, was to ensure students understood how the two are related.  

“Teachers talked about our unique freedoms and the cost and sacrifices made to guarantee and preserve them,” he said. 

Veterans themselves were an important part of the lessons and celebrations held throughout the county. At Oak View Middle School, a panel of veterans responded to student questions during a discussion broadcast throughout the school. Many other schools also had veterans come to speak to students about their experiences.

At Wiles Elementary School, Jim Lynch, who is the director of the county’s Veterans Services office, and Charley Wise, a curriculum director for the district, spoke to students about what it means to be a veteran. The event at Wiles was one of several Veteran’s Day recognition programs held throughout the district, events which included songs, speeches, flag displays, guest speakers and other tributes to veterans. 

“Our cafeteria was filled to overflowing with veterans, their families and guests,” said Doris Richardson, principal of Hidden Oak Elementary School. “They really seemed to appreciate the honor.”

The classroom activities and special events were particularly meaningful to those students who themselves have relatives who have served or are currently serving in the military. Many of the veterans who visited local schools to talk to students and/or to be honored are the parents, grandparents or are in other ways related to the students at those schools. Many schools created a “Wall of Stars,” a hallway decorated by students with the names of family members who are veterans.

Schools also reached out to veterans outside their school community. At High Springs Community School, for example, students wrote hundreds of thank-you cards and letters which will be distributed to veterans currently being treated at the VA Hospital in Gainesville.

Principals say the school-based activities gave students a better understanding of and appreciation for the sacrifices made by veterans.

“Our children learned that Veterans Day is a special day to remember and thank all the men and women who serve and protect our country, past and present,” said Lina Bedoya, principal of Irby Elementary School.