Veterans Day Message from the Superintendent

Public schools across Charleston County held public ceremonies, invited guest speakers, and incorporated holiday-specific lessons in honor of Veterans Day on Wednesday, November 11, 2009.

Sullivan’s Island Elementary celebrated with guest speakers Bill Walsh, United States Air Force Reserve - Captain, 315th Airlift Wing, Charleston AFB, SC and Chief Meteorologist of Live Five News, along with Ned Forney retired Captain of United States Marine Corp and Director of Education at Patriots Point, and First Class Sergeant Leo Fetter of the US Army Reserve. At a school assembly, these veterans discussed their military experiences and what it means to be veteran. The previous day, third grade student Tyrione Potter was able to speak with his parents Shekeya and David Oliver in Iraq through an air card and webcam feed via a laptop computer.  SFC Shakeya Oliver had not seen her son since July. Tyrione's parents were again "connected" via webcam on Wednesday, and they shared their experiences with the school community.

Stono Park Elementary invited family members of students and staff who are veterans to a special breakfast in honor of their service and commitment. Many of the veterans appeared on the school's morning news show. Stono Park parent Kim Marion also shared a reading from America’s White Table by Margot Theis Raven.

Retired Lt. Colonel Selby visited Mrs. Sandra Fitzgerald's class at Charles Pinckney Elementary. Lt. Colonel Selby spoke to the third graders about the importance of Veterans Day. He also conveyed stories about his experience with the Army.

On Wednesday, November 6, the Military Magnet Academy held its annual Veterans Day celebration.  Several area elementary schools, community members, former MMA Regimental Commanders, and veterans attended.

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Veterans Day Message from the Superintendent:

I write with a brief note to wish everyone a Happy Veterans Day.   To all of the veterans and active military, staff, parents, family, and friends- I thank you for your commitment, and hope you know how grateful we are for your service and courage.  

As we pause to recognize our veterans and active military on this day - and every day - let us learn from their example of dedication.  In the words of John F. Kennedy, "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."  Thanks to the sacrifices made by our past and present military, our students are able to pursue the American dream.

Let us never forget this. 

Regards,

Superintendent Dr. Nancy J. McGinley