As we celebrated Veterans Day this year, the question, “why do we have school on Veterans Day?” floated around Students’ heads. Students questioned why we have the day off on Presidents Day, and other holidays, but not on Veterans Day. As students came to school on November 11th, some yawned and groaned, annoyed because they couldn’t sleep in an extra day. In doing so, they were losing sight of what really matters, and why we recognize veterans on their own day.
Mr. Mallet, Director of the Upper School, explains it well saying, “We have school on Veterans Day because we want to be together to have an opportunity to recognize the extraordinary service of our veterans.”
So, what action are we taking as a school to appreciate but still learn from our veterans?
In the past, we have had a variation of assemblies and activities to honor our veterans at school. Including, boy scouts doing flag raising, writing letters to veterans, speakers, and even events through clubs. In the past, faculty who are veterans have spoken about their experiences serving as well. Our college office in recent years has picked speakers by reaching out to alumni who are veterans. This is because students are more likely to be impacted by those they share some sort of connection with.
Dr. Carter, a college counselor at SSSAS and a veteran himself, said, “It’s even more powerful when you get a recent alumnus.” After the guest speaker talks to the school there is usually a lunch-in, where students can talk more one on one with a veteran. This is inspiring to students who see a military path in their future. When Dr. Carter was explaining this tradition he proudly added how it is, “a wonderful experience” and it “always has positive feedback.”
This year, we had 1st. Lieutenant Lindsey Ellison, who is a SSSAS alumni, speak with the Upper School. She told stories of her time in the Navy and as an enlisted Marine as well as the people who impacted her most. Her inspiration for joining the military was the intention “to give back to people who have given so much to [her].” And her message for the students was to “find a way to serve those around you in honor of the Veterans that have gone before us,” whether that looks like community service, teaching, food drives, etc.
Speeches like these encourage students to explore the value of serving in the military or, like Lieutenant Ellison reminded our school, explore the value of serving in general. So, how will you serve?
