Veterans Day Ceremonies across ISD 728 Communities Celebrate Those Who Served, Sacrificed

From Zimmerman in the north to Rogers Elementary in the south, ISD 728 schools held a series of ceremonies and performances to celebrate area veterans on Monday, November 10 and Tuesday, November 11. 

While Tuesday was recognized, nationally, as Veterans Day, Otsego Elementary got the jump on its sister schools with its recognition on Monday morning, November 10. The day featured a flag raising with a parent/Veteran's assistance, a short welcome from Principal Kelly Kudla, sing-alongs featuring each Branch of Service, and a small breakfast for students and their Veterans. 

"We try to go on November 10 so we can have the Honor Guard join us for the flag raising. We know they're busy on Veterans Day, so if we can have them and do the recognition a day early, that works fine for us," Kudla said. 

At several sites, including Rogers Elementary, Veterans made a walk through the school, getting applause from students and staff. 

"It's the welcome that each of you deserved when you came home from your time away from friends, away from family - and the one that maybe you didn't all get," said one guest speaker. 

Music programs at each of the high schools also honored Vets. At Hassan Elementary, programs featured artwork by Grade 4 students. 

All buildings had art projects and more on the walls, thanking their guests for their service to the United States forces. 

"It's the least we can do to express our thanks," said Rogers Elementary Principal Phillip Schreifels.