Margo reminded me that Saturday November 11th is Veterans Day. In the midst of planning a November birthday celebration, plus Thanksgiving plans, I wasn’t thinking about Veterans Day. Maybe it’s because I’m not a veteran, but it’s not that I don’t think it’s important. My stepfather was a Marine, my father-in-law and cousin are Army veterans, and my uncle struggled with PTSD after serving in Viet Nam. Margo is my coworker who has suffered negative repercussions from her service to our country. The week leading up to Veterans Day is difficult for her due to devastating memories. I had no idea, but I’m so glad that she shared this with me.
In thinking about Veterans Day, I always thought of it as a positive affirmation for those who sacrificed for our freedoms, not realizing that it would be so difficult for some. Then, while listening to the radio this week, I’d heard someone talk about how people just minimally show up for the Veterans Day parade or events. In addition, there are rumblings in various communities about our young people not being grateful for our American freedoms, and not even understanding how they came about in the first place.
As we hear about acceptance, respect, and kindness for everyone in our community, I simply ask that we continue to remember and honor our soldiers. Express gratitude for the sacrifices they made, and continue to make, while remembering that there are often pains that we can’t see but which last a lifetime. Honoring our United States flag is honoring veterans. Teaching our children about the personal devastation of war and freedom’s defense helps them to learn compassion and empathy, plus thankfulness. This can help them to gain appreciation for our country, and pride for our American flag and freedoms. Help us stand together as Americans.
Jesus stated, “…every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.” Matthew 12:25. Even if you do not believe what the Bible teaches, this makes sense.
Thank you veterans. Many are remembering and honoring, you do not stand alone!
Reminder, the next school board meeting is November 13, 2023 at the new location in the City’s Chamber office, 540 West Hills Circle at 5:30pm. There will be a presentation regarding The World’s Best Workforce (https://education.mn.gov/MDE/dse/wbwf/) which includes guided goals from the state:
“School boards that govern districts and charter schools are required to develop comprehensive, long-term strategic plans that address the following five WBWF goals:
1.All children are ready for school.
2.All racial and economic achievement gaps between students are closed.
3.All students are ready for career and college.
4.All students graduate from high school.
Note: Due to legislative changes, third grade reading is no longer a WBWF goal area as of the 2023–24 school year.“
The virtual State of the District presentation will available soon, given by Superintendent Elstad. For previous videos, check the district website: https://www.isd761.org/our-district/state-of-district
The next Coffee and Conversation with the Superintendent is Friday December 1, 2023 at the district office 515 W. Bridge Street, door 1, 8-9am. Anyone in the community is invited to attend.
I hope you smile and make memories this weekend. Take care.
Elizabeth for Owatonna Schools 