In observance of Veteran’s Day, the staff and students at Rowland Elementary paid tribute to the men and women who have served in the Armed Forces with a powerful and patriotic program on Wednesday, November 8th. Students and staff displayed their patriotism by wearing red, white and blue clothing. In addition, staff members participated in Jeans for Troops, a nationwide dress down day sponsored by GI GO Fund, which uses donations to support veterans through employment and housing assistance, as well as education and healthcare benefits. Over twenty veterans attended the program, all of whom have family members who attend or work at Rowland Elementary. Also in attendance at the ceremony were Superintendent Linda N. Reid and South Euclid City Council member Ed Icove.
After a touching video tribute to all armed service members, Rowland staff member and veteran Lamar McKenzie led the packed school gym in the Pledge of Allegiance. The assembly also featured several touching musical and artistic tributes to military veterans, including a recited poem by Kindergartners and a short song by first graders, both of which thanked the veterans in attendance for their bravery and sacrifice. Under the direction of Mr. Daniel Corrigan, second and third graders sang the catchy and American Revolution inspired “My Shot” from the Broadway musical production, Hamilton. As a fitting conclusion to the ceremony, each veteran, with family members by their side, was awarded a certificate of recognition by Superintendent Reid. The SEL Schools wish to thank all veterans of the armed forces for their sacrifice and devotion to protecting our nation’s freedoms.
