To honor and celebrate those who have served and protected our country, three district schools held Veterans Day events. St. Francis High School (SFHS) hosted a Veterans Day Appreciation Event on Monday, Nov. 11, while St. Francis Middle School (SFMS) hosted an appreciation event on Tuesday, Nov. 12. Also on Tuesday, Cedar Creek Elementary School (CCES) invited Maj. Nathan Burr, Minnesota Army National Guard, to spend 15 minutes with each grade level.
Appreciation events: Veterans, their families and community members were invited to celebrate Veterans Day with students and staff of the high school and middle school with a special assembly that included recognizing veterans in attendance and honoring those who have past. The event also provided a learning opportunity for students to understand why Veterans Day is important. At the high school, Maj. Mike Starr (Retired), North Dakota Army National Guard and U.S. Air Force, spoke to students about four former SFHS students who gave their lives in combat for their country. At the middle school, Burr used examples from his experiences in the military to challenge students to take advantage of opportunities they have in life. Veterans in attendance were given a coloring and special thank you message from fifth grade students at St. Francis Elementary School. Additionally, 10th grade students wrote a letter to veterans who attended the high school celebration.
Cedar Creek Elementary visit: Burr made his annual trip to Cedar Creek Elementary to show students how important it is to recognize and show respect for veterans. He spent time with each grade to discuss why Veterans Day is special, while also sharing his own stories and how the values the students learn in school are similar to those he displays while in the military.
Thank you to all the veterans!