ST. PAUL – Students, parents, and teachers gathered at the Glen Avon School gymnasium to honour those who served and continue to serve the country.
In silent respect, students, staff and guests observed Remembrance Day a few days early during a ceremony held on Nov. 9.
“All of our students were quite respectful, quiet, and participated really well,” said Glen Avon School Principal Kandy Songer, adding, she is also “really happy” with the number of students who took part.
According to Songer, students volunteered to help prepare for the ceremony. No students were told or forced to participate or volunteer.
“I’m just very impressed by how much kids really wanted to volunteer.”
She said students then came together to practice and get ready for the day.
“My intent was not to speak at all,” and when asked why, Songer said, she wanted students to be the ones doing the talking.
According to Songer, one student who spoke told her that public speaking is challenging but also fun. Songer added the student then said, “I don't think I want to do it again, though!"
Songer also said observing Remembrance Day is important in a school setting.
“As a society, we’re destined to repeat the things that we forgot,” she said. “We have to make sure we remember the things we don’t want to repeat... That’s as important as learning anything.”
Schools across the St. Paul Education region held Remembrance Day celebrations ahead of Nov. 11.
Sylvie Smyl, chair of the St. Paul Education (SPERD) board, thanked all SPERD schools for “doing a great job with” their Remembrance Day celebrations, during the Oct. 9 SPERD board of trustees meeting.
