Indian Creek School Honors the Veterans in our Community and Beyond

Every year around Veterans Day, Indian Creek School students and faculty honor the men and women of our community who have served in the military in many ways. It is important for students to learn about and understand the sacrifices made by the over 21 million veterans who have served in the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and Navy. This week, the ICS community honored our veterans through lessons, activities, discussions, and a Lower School Assembly.

On Friday, November 13, Lower School students, faculty, and staff came together for a virtual Veterans Day assembly. Parents and other family members who have served in the military were invited to join in this special event, hosted by Lower School SGA president (and proud daughter of two veterans) Ivy Van Wormer. 

After welcoming everyone and leading the guests in the Pledge of Allegiance, Lower School Counselor Dr. Maryellen Polvino-Bognar introduced Upper School Humanities teacher Tom Sheppard, a veteran who served as a former Naval Special Warfare (SEAL) Officer. Mr. Sheppard read the book Poppy Lady, by Barbara Elizabeth Walsh. This book tells the story of  Moina Belle Michael, a schoolteacher from Georgia, who worked to establish the red poppy as the symbol to honor and remember soldiers. After hearing the story, the students reflected on this illustration of how one person, doing one small thing, had a ripple effect that still impacts millions of people in a positive way today. 

After the story, fourth grade student Alex Owen presented the poem "On Veterans' Day," by Joanna Fuchs.  Next, Ivy encouraged veterans and children of veterans in the audience to stand up when their military branch was honored in the “Armed Forces Medly.” Attendees then enjoyed a "Hall of Heroes" montage, comprised of stars that were created by students and faculty to honor the veterans in their lives.

Finally, Head of School Mr. Kyle spoke to the Lower School students about how much he admires the members of his family who served in the military. Mr. Kyle told the students that he looked up to his two grandfathers and his father. He told the students that “It’s very important to say thank you to our veterans and let them know that you appreciate their service every day.”

Throughout the week, many classes school-wide held discussions and activities to highlight veterans.  First grade students participated in class discussions about what it means to be a Veteran, learning about the five branches of the military and identifying adjectives to describe a Veteran. Second grade students created virtual poppies in Seesaw. Mr. Connolly held discussions with his Upper School Latin students and advisees about the history and purpose of Veterans Day, and encouraged them to tune in to a virtual performance of the USNA band in honor of Veterans.  

Honoring the veterans in the Indian Creek School community and beyond is an important tradition at ICS.
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Indian Creek school is a co-educational, college preparatory independent school, located in Crownsville, Maryland.  Students in Pre-K3 through grade 12 receive a vibrant educational experience based on excellent academics steeped in strong student-teacher connections.