McKenna Elementary School in the Massapequa School District marked Veterans Day by keeping one tradition alive and starting what administrators hope will become a new custom.
The school hosted its annual Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 9, welcoming dozens of local veterans. Members of the Massapequa Park VFW provided a color guard, who stood at the front of the auditorium as chorus students sang “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Students spoke about the history of Veterans Day and Assistant Principal Laura McConnell read a roll call, which included the names of all veterans in attendance, as well as living and deceased veterans from McKenna families. The ceremony also included the playing of taps, folding of the flag, and performance of “You’re a Grand Old Flag” by kindergartners.
The auditorium was adorned in red, white and blue ribbons and bunting, and patriotic paintings were displayed depicting the flag, Liberty Bell and a bald eagle. Second- and third-graders made drawings and wrote letters to thank veterans for their service. Principal Dr. Amanda Lowry reminded all students that Veterans Day is not just a day off from school, but a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by others.
This year, McKenna introduced its first Field of Honor. American flags were set up on the front lawn of the school, in partnership with the Massapequa Kiwanis Club. Families can purchase a tag to be affixed to a flag in honor of a veteran. Dr. Lowry said that it is just another way for the school community to honor its local heroes and wants it to become an annual display.
