This year, FCPS has officially made Veterans Day (Nov. 11) a instructional school day rather than a student holiday, aiming for fewer days off. This has sparked controversy between parents and students because it eliminates the importance of the celebration for veterans. This day holds special significance for many students, especially those with parents or family members who have served. It is a unique opportunity for these students to honor and celebrate their loved ones’ sacrifices and dedication to our country. Having Veterans Day off from school allows families to come together and participate in community events, parades, and memorial services. 

At first, having a day off might just seem like a break from school, but it actually means more than that. For many, they get to really think about what veterans have done. During a normal school day, most students are focused on tests, homework, and classes. There isn’t much time to reflect on meaningful activities.

Time away from school on this specific day allows for engagement with the history and significance of military service. Schools often organize special assemblies, guest speakers, or field trips to museums and veterans’ memorials. When students have the day off, they can absorb these lessons more deeply without the stress of the school day, enhancing their understanding of the importance of veterans.

Furthermore, having no school on Veterans Day can also deepen family bonds with the many children that have parents in the military, or retired in from the military because it honors them with a special day off with their children, this is very important and would be a disservice to take away this special day and an opportunity to bond with their children. Every other day of the year veterans are overlooked and overshadowed by daily life and routine. Honoring veterans for one day by canceling school is a powerful statement to not just students, but all American citizens because it sends out a message that veterans are noticed and respected.

For students without a military connection, by a parent or a family friend, the day off still provides a moment to reflect on the freedoms and safety veterans have secured for all of us. Eliminating Veterans Day as a student holiday could unintentionally decrease the recognition and respect that veterans deserve. Schools can also use this day to educate students about history, courage, and sacrifice in meaningful ways that resonate on a personal level.

Removing this day as a holiday next year sends out a dangerous message-that veterans aren’t as honored and respected as they used to be. By removing this holiday, it sends out a message that to students and citizens that the struggles they went through  and risked their lives aren’t worthy of one day of honor. Therefore, we have to stop this from happening and embrace veterans day by committing to a student holiday occasion. This day is especially important for students in Hayfield because we have a strong military connection as many of our staff and students are involved with veterans.