WESTOVER, MD (November 12, 2024) – On Veterans Day, students and staff across Somerset County Public Schools (SCPS) came together in heartfelt observance to honor local veterans for their service and sacrifice. Through ceremonies, service projects, performances, and acts of appreciation, schools across SCPS expressed gratitude to veterans from the community, showing their respect and understanding of the significance of this day.
At Deal Island Elementary School, students in grades 4 and 5 led a Veterans Day ceremony that included special readings and musical performances dedicated to local veterans. The ceremony featured a trumpet solo by community member David Boothe, bringing an uplifting moment to the event that resonated with both students and guests alike.
Princess Anne Elementary School engaged students and staff by collecting donations to create care packages for Operation We Care of Salisbury, MD; a local organization supporting both active-duty military and veterans. Students also crafted handwritten cards for veterans to be included in the packages, adding personal expressions of thanks and appreciation to each one.
At Carter G. Woodson Elementary, local veterans were invited to spend time with students across all grades, reading stories and sharing experiences. This opportunity allowed students to connect directly with veterans and hear first-hand the importance of service to the country.
Students in grades 6 and 7 at Somerset Intermediate School wrote letters of appreciation to local veterans during Social Studies classes, reflecting on the contributions and dedication of those who have served. These letters provided a platform for students to express their gratitude and recognize the impact of veterans in their community.
Crisfield High School students contributed their time and talents in several ways. Five students were nominated to represent their school by handing out thank-you cards written by classmates, along with Dunkin’ Donuts gift cards, to veterans attending the Crisfield Elks Veterans Day Breakfast. The Crisfield High School Band performed patriotic songs for attendees, enhancing the ceremonial atmosphere of the breakfast event. Additionally, students volunteered to help set up for the breakfast, showing their support and gratitude through service.
Washington Academy & High School held its own Veterans Day breakfast and ceremony to honor local veterans. The program opened with the National Anthem, performed by WAHS’ Interim Principal, Mr. Shelton Handy and WHS Saxophone Ensemble, included patriotic musical selections performed by the WHS Marching Band, WAHS Choir and featured a keynote speech from decorated veteran and Somerset County native, Dr. Sharon Milbourne Washington; who shared insights and experiences from her time serving in the United States Army.
Throughout Somerset County, SCPS students have demonstrated their appreciation and respect for those who have served. SCPS remains committed to fostering a culture of gratitude, civic engagement, and respect within its student body. This year’s Veterans Day events underscore the values that SCPS strives to instill in every student across the system.
Students at Deal Island Elementary gave patriotic musical performances at their school’s recent Veterans Day program.
Nolan D. and Tamia H., Students at Deal Island Elementary, read special tributes for local veterans at their school’s recent Veterans Day program.
(L-R) Andrew C., Jack M., Ralei T., Sophia H., Emerson T.
Princess Anne Elementary School students collected donated items to make care packages for members of the military serving overseas through Operation We Care.
Amber Insley, Army Sergeant Major and parent of three SCPS students, visited Carter G. Woodson Elementary School to read to students and share her experiences serving in the United States Army.
Crisfield High School band members pictured, L-R: Dillon M., Isabella M., Zachary G., Connor K., Aaliyah M.
Local veterans attending the Crisfield Elks Veterans Day Breakfast salute the American Flag as students in the Crisfield Academy & High School band play the National Anthem.
Hand-written thank-you note authored by a Crisfield High School student and many others like it were distributed at the Crisfield Elks Veterans Day Breakfast.
Isabella M., Owen B.., Autumn S. and Carrie D., proudly represented Crisfield Academy & High School, distributing 120 thank-you cards at the Crisfield Elks Veteran’s Day Breakfast to attending veterans with personal messages from CAHS students and a Dunkin Donuts gift card as a token of appreciation.
Somerset County native and decorated Veteran of the United States Army, Dr. Sharon Millbourne Washington, PhD, was the keynote speaker at Washington Academy & High School’s Veterans Day Breakfast and Ceremony.