Gilbert Public Schools Honors Veterans and Service Members in Many Different Ways
Hailey Borden
Over the past week Gilbert Public Schools students, staff and families have been honoring our veterans with a variety of activities recognizing the sacrifices of those who have served our country. Schools across the district have hosted a range of events, from patriotic assemblies and musical performances to veteran parades and guest speaker presentations, all to honor active duty service members and military Veterans. Some of the many events that took place in our schools are detailed below.
Patriotic Performances and Assemblies
Several schools held patriotic assemblies and musical performances to honor veterans. Students at Burk Elementary, Greenfield Elementary, Meridian Elementary, Mesquite Elementary, Settler’s Point Elementary, Sonoma Ranch Elementary, and Val Vista Lakes Elementary all shared their creativity through songs and readings that included new and classic patriotic tunes and heartfelt tributes to veterans and service members.
Veteran Recognition Events
Many schools organized special events to recognize Veterans. Neely Traditional Academy held a “Donuts with My Veteran” event, inviting Veterans to enjoy breakfast with students and their families. Playa del Rey Elementary hosted a Veterans Day assembly with guest speakers, while Quartz Hill Elementary collaborated with Campo Verde High School for a joint event featuring guest speakers and student performances. These events provided opportunities for students to interact with veterans, learn about their experiences, and express their gratitude.
Community Engagement
Some schools extended their appreciation to the broader community. Towne Meadows Elementary hosted a guest speaker from the Veteran’s Association, offering students a deeper understanding of military service. Highland Park Elementary hosted a flag-raising ceremony while Spectrum Elementary invited veterans to a hot breakfast and a student-led assembly, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community.
"A large part of my job involves being on multiple campuses throughout the week, so I have the opportunity to talk to a lot of students and staff. It’s really nice to see those same people all come together and honor veterans,” said Mike Story, a U.S. Army Veteran and Security Officer with Gilbert Public Schools. “I’m not sure how they knew I’m a veteran but I truly appreciate everyone coming out and being so attentive to what the speakers had to say.”
Gilbert Public Schools appreciates and honors all active duty service members and military veterans. As teachers, staff, parents, and community members, service members and Veterans make up an important part of the GPS Family.