Streams Students Lead School-Wide Effort to Honor Veterans

Veterans Day provides a meaningful opportunity to recognize the men and women who have bravely served in the nation’s armed forces. At Streams Elementary, that recognition extends far beyond a single day. Students and staff are committed to honoring veterans and exploring ways to support them throughout the entire school year.

This fall, fourth graders took on a leadership role by helping the whole school learn about the significance of Veterans Day. In small groups, the students visited classrooms across Streams to share lessons about who veterans are and why they are celebrated.

“Our fourth graders were wonderful communicators and knowledgeable thinkers as they helped all Streams students learn about who veterans are and why we celebrate Veterans Day,” said Lauren Bogus, IB PYP coordinator. “They shared what it means to honor the brave men and women who have served our country, inspiring us to be caring and reflective as we show our gratitude and respect.”

Fourth-grade teachers Amy Barker and Anne DiDesiderio prepared the students for their teaching debut, helping them develop clear messages and a sense of purpose in their presentations.

“It was so amazing and wonderful that our fourth graders had the opportunity to take the lead in traveling around to all of the classrooms and teaching lessons of appreciation for Veterans' Day to all of our elementary students,” Rebecca Smith, IB PYP coordinator, said. “What a fantastic experience for the fourth graders and for all of the elementary students as they were able to learn about the purpose and importance of Veterans Day and of the importance of showing appreciation!”

As part of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, Streams students learn what it means to be caring, reflective, and principled members of a global community. Veterans Day provided an authentic opportunity to connect these IB traits with real-world service.

“In learning about the values veterans embody – honor, perseverance, and selflessness – our students have been inspired to think deeply about how they, too, can contribute to making the world a better and more peaceful place,” Mrs. Bogus added.

In addition to teaching their peers, fourth graders are supporting organizations that serve veterans as part of their Inquiry Exhibition Project. Their efforts already include creating a Wall of Honor, writing heartfelt letters and cards, collecting candy for veterans, making and sending paracord bracelets to active-duty military personnel, and visiting the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum to deepen their understanding.

Representing Streams Elementary, fourth graders Ella McIntyre and Max LaSalle distributed student-written letters to veterans at the Upper St. Clair Veterans Day program on Nov. 11 near the township building.

Throughout the year, Streams students will continue learning about the service and sacrifices of veterans, finding meaningful ways – big and small – to show care, respect, and gratitude.