A Kenwood student raises her flag with pride during a Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11, 2023

The Springfield City School District proudly honors the courageous men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving our country. In a series of heartfelt events throughout District buildings, students and staff paid homage to these individuals and expressed gratitude for their selfless service.

Kenwood Elementary set a poignant tone on Friday morning as they invited local veterans to a special ceremony. Students, with a deep understanding of the significance of Veterans Day, delivered moving speeches that delved into the history of this important day. Expressing their gratitude, students presented veterans with heartfelt cards of appreciation, acknowledging the sacrifices made in the name of freedom. The ceremony was further elevated by the powerful performances of the Springfield High School Marching Band and Drill Team, who played a stirring medley of military branch songs. The SHS Color Guard opened the ceremony with a dignified presentation of the United States flag. Notably, the entire event was orchestrated by Kenwood's dedicated fifth-grade teachers, Amy Blair and Jeannina Fraley, a veteran herself.


Schaefer Middle School embraced the spirit of recognition through the efforts of Counselor Terri Connolly. She curated a thoughtfully designed bulletin board, showcasing the family members of staff who have served in various branches of the military, fostering a sense of pride and connection within the school community.

Warder Park-Wayne Elementary School embarked on a creative endeavor, with students expressing their gratitude through art. The school's young artists diligently colored pictures thanking veterans for their service. Librarian Sheri Ehnie took the initiative to share these heartfelt creations with local restaurants offering Veterans Day specials. As veterans enjoyed their meals, they were presented with these tokens of appreciation, creating meaningful connections between the students and the honored guests. The school further deepened its commitment to education by hosting an engaging assembly for students in grades 3-6, shedding light on the origins of the National Anthem and fostering a deeper appreciation for our nation's history.

The Springfield City School District is proud to stand united in recognizing and honoring the incredible contributions of our veterans. Through these thoughtful gestures and educational initiatives, the District strives to instill a sense of gratitude, respect, and patriotism in our students, ensuring that the spirit of Veterans Day resonates throughout our community.