Sanfordville hosts second annual Valentines for Vets Celebration
Sanfordville Elementary School held their second Annual Valentines for Vets Celebration on Wednesday, February 12. Students and staff invited family and community members who are veterans or currently in military service to be their Valentines to thank them for their sacrifice and service.
The morning was hosted by the staff and students of SES, coordinated by teachers, Mrs. Overbey and Mrs. Havell. The guests were welcomed by first graders lining the hallways and waving handmade paper American flags. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the third-grade students before the welcome address was given by Principal Johnna Maraia.
“Honored guests, words cannot truly capture the depth of the gratitude we have for the sacrifices you have made for our country,” Ms. Maraia said. “We extend a heartfelt thank you to your unwavering commitment to our nation. The courage you display in the face of danger will be honored today and will resonate through future generations.”
“Our admiration and appreciation for our United States veterans will always remain in our hearts,” Ms. Maraia continued. “As educators and as family members, we strive to instill in our children a belief in themselves. We recognize that we are nurturing the future leaders, defenders and ethical citizens of our country. It is our hope for the future that we foster a strong sense of pride in our schools, our community, our state and our nation, and that our students understand the true essence of patriotism.”
The veterans were treated to a continental breakfast as they listened to patriotic songs and poetry sung and recited by the Grade Four students and their Kindergarten Buddies. Students were accompanied on keyboard by SES music teacher Mrs. Echevarria.
The Grade Four Band and Orchestra musicians performed under the direction of Ms. Chester and Mrs. Blaikner. Our veterans received a sweet send-off by the second-grade students, who lined the hallways to say goodbye and hand out goodie bags which were designed and created by the students and staff of Sanfordville.
All 800 Sanfordville students contributed to the celebration. In addition, WVHS students from the Future Farmers of America Club made boutonnieres and Criminal Justice students provided parking lot supervision and helped with security.
Sanfordville thanks the following groups and businesses for their generous donations: the Sanfordville families and the SES PTA, Warwick Shoprite, Warwick Price Chopper, Bagel Time, Pine Island Bagel Store, Fizzy Lifting Candy, Crumb Cupcakes, Corwins Florist, Edenville General Store, Mary Murphy Cookies, Dream Donuts, Pine Island Parks and Recreation, Pine Island Chamber of Commerce and the Warwick Chamber of Commerce.
View a photo gallery from the event below:
