November 13, 2020 View as Webpage
Educators and Students Reimagined Ways to Honor Veterans 
Veterans Day began November 11, 1919 on the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Unlike Memorial Day, Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans—living or dead—but especially gives thanks to living veterans who served their country honorably during war or peacetime.

Ohio Revised Code (ORC 3313.602) requires every school district in the state to observe Veterans Day with a program “that conveys the meaning and significance of that day.” With school's new pandemic safety protocols in place, Veterans Day traditions were creatively reimagined. Today's article shares a few of the many examples of Stark students and educators demonstrating respect and heartfelt appreciation to our local heroes.

Local Parade
In Canton Local, a Veterans Day parade was held – complete with waving flags, handmade signs, a favor bag and cheers from students and staff. On Facebook, one veteran commented, "Thank you staff and students for the tribute yesterday. The bag of notes from you were inspiring as well as your enthusiasm during the parade...I salute you back.”

School-Produced Videos
Several Stark County school districts created videos highlighting veterans from their district along with bands, choirs and student read poetry. Here is one video – compiled and edited by students in the Hoover Media Program.

Livestream Event
In Jackson, students watched a livestreamed ceremony unveiling the recently installed Rolling Thunder MIA/POW Chair of Honor installed in Robert Fife Stadium.

Meet & Greet
Among other weeklong activities, elementary students in North Canton were able to meet some of the local military service men and women from the 762 Transportation Company, U.S. Army, and the U.S. Air Force. They learned about military life and were able to ask questions.

Thank You Letters
Students in many districts wrote thank you letters to family members or school staff who served or are currently serving in the military. In Plain Local, high school students wrote thank you letters that were distributed to veterans during Plain Township's drive-thru celebration at Veterans Park. 

The Stark Education Partnership (a 501(c)3 non-profit organization) collaborates with education, business, civic and community members across the entire spectrum – cradle to career – to create and respond to opportunities that will provide ALL students with education and career success.