On Nov. 11, six local veterans came to speak to Prospect students and staff about the service they’ve done in the theater during first and second period. In addition, there was a breakfast in the KLC before school for veterans, staff members, and local government members, including Thomas Hayes, the mayor of Arlington Heights. Donuts and coffee were served, and the band came to play patriotic songs.
However, Veteran’s Day hasn’t always been celebrated in District 214. It used to be a day off of school in which students were free to shop, sleep or do whatever they want. Yet, six years ago, this changed when superintendent David Schuler started making Veteran’s Day a school day.
According to Board Vice President Dussling, this decision was based off of the District 214 Board of Education’s agreement to perform functions at school to honor veterans after finding out from some surveys that many people did leisurely activities rather than celebrating the holiday.
“This is much more meaningful than just giving [Veteran’s Day] as a holiday and not recognizing [it],” Dussling said.
Hayes also thinks celebrating Veteran’s Day at school makes it more powerful.
“I think it’s very important to honor veterans for all their service and sacrifice that they gave over the course of their military careers. It’s important to give back to not only your community, but your country,” Hayes said.
Dussling, who attended the Veteran’s Day event and served in the Vietnam War 52 years ago, also realizes the importance of honoring veterans.
“To recognize that people have put themselves in harm’s way, and gone away from their families, and done great services to their country, this is the most worthy thing to recognize what they’ve done,” Dussling said.
In addition to recognition, there was a sense of community among veterans and students at the event as well, according to Hayes, who is also a veteran.
“We’re kind of brothers and sisters in arms, and so it’s always good to be with other people who have served like you have,” Hayes said. “But also to interact with the students to try to encourage them to maybe serve in the military as well.”
