BROKEN ARROW, Okla. — Aspen Creek Early Childhood Center celebrates veterans in a big and educational way.
Each year, students create crafts to display along the school's walls and learn about Veterans Day. The school invites veterans to come and see the artwork and listen to the students sing a few patriotic songs. Then, they have a parade for them, and the students celebrate them as they go down the hall.
In Mrs. Manus’ class, they've learned about the American flag and what its colors represent. Their artwork for the veterans is painting the flag.
2 News listened to how she teaches 4- and 5-year-olds the importance of the holiday.
“We’ve been talking about it, we’ve read books, and we actually have a few students whose dads were in the service,” Manus said.
We then asked her how, as a teacher, this learning opportunity has impacted her.
“It’s been rewarding seeing them learn stuff like what the United States flag is, and you ask them the meaning of Veterans Day is, and they know it,” Manus said.
For SPED teacher Mrs. Rogalski, Veterans Day is close to her heart as she has family members who served.
Her class paints starts with red and blue as they learn about colors and shapes.
2 News asked her what the most rewarding part is getting to do this event each year.
“It’s cool to see the smiles on the Veteran's faces (sorry I could cry) That our littlest learners are honoring them and that’s just cool for the country,” Rolgalski said.
Both teachers told 2 News they love educating their little ones on such an important day so they understand at a young age just how important our veterans are.
“I think veterans are our most important people and we are where we are today because of them, just super grateful for them and all that they do and have done for us and our country,” Rolgalski said.
2 News asked how the students felt leading up to their big performance in front of the Veterans. Both said the students are excited and have been practicing the week before the big day to sing in recognition of those who are serving, those who’ve served, and those we will never forget.
Along a wall with family members of students who are either veterans or active duty. 2 News spoke to Techincal Sergant Jordan Peirce who just returned from deployment.
For Peirce and others in attendance, this celebration means the world.
“It’s so important for the kids to know and understand,” Pierce said.
She just returned from a 7 month deployment in the middle east
“It’s so cute and we appreciate it so much. People always say ‘thank you for your service they’re worth it," Pierce said.
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