Washington Street School held its annual Veterans Day Assembly on Nov. 9, welcoming local veterans and honoring them with multiple performances.
The entire school community joined together in the gymnasium, waving handmade artwork and signs as the veterans entered to cheers and applause. The assembly began with the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem, sung by music teacher Kelly Tesar.
Principal John Stella explained the inception of Veterans Day and the branches of military the day recognizes. “Today, we honor and remember all of our veterans and thank them for their selfless sacrifices to ensure our freedoms,” he said. “On behalf of Washington Street School, we thank you, veterans.”
Following the introduction of each honored guest by Assistant Principal Dominic Gobbo, the room held a moment of silence for those who have passed and students from the school’s band and band teacher Jason O’Connor performed a rendition of “Taps.”
Students from grades 3-6 were then invited on stage to read aloud their poems and letters, expressing their thoughts on veterans. All students in grades 3-6 participated in the writing activity, and the veterans were each given a care package to take home that had some of the letters and poems inside.
The assembly concluded with Tesar leading the room in sing-alongs of various patriotic songs, inviting the honored guests to stand when a song was performed that represented their branch of military.
