Honoring Our Veterans: Celebrating Veterans Day in the Classroom

This Veterans Day, we come together to honor the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication of our veterans. Observed annually on November 11, Veterans Day offers us a moment to reflect on the contributions of those who have served our country in the military.

Please Note: Tuolumne County Schools and administrative offices will be closed on Monday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day.

Activity Idea for the Classroom: “Letters to Veterans”

Encourage students to express gratitude through written letters. In this activity, students can write heartfelt letters to local veterans, thanking them for their service. These letters can be shared with veterans’ organizations in our community or displayed within the school to honor veterans in our families and neighborhoods.

Teachers might consider prompting students with ideas such as:

• Sharing why they appreciate veterans’ sacrifices.
• Reflecting on the freedoms they enjoy thanks to the service of veterans.
• Asking respectful questions about life in the military (optional, if possible to pass to veterans who enjoy corresponding).

The History of Veterans Day

Veterans Day originally began as Armistice Day on November 11, 1919, marking the first anniversary of the end of World War I. In 1954, the holiday was renamed Veterans Day, expanding its purpose to honor all veterans. For more on the history and significance of Veterans Day, check out these resources:

• Veterans Day History (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)
• Veterans Day (Britannica School)

Hometown Heroes

With the help of the California County Educational Technology Consortium, the Hometown Heroes veteran interviews are archived in the database at californiastreaming.org. These interviews serve as audio textbooks that can be used better to educate students on the influence of war veterans and will be accessible to teachers and students across California.

Thank you for joining us in commemorating the selflessness of our veterans this Veterans Day. Let’s take this time to recognize their service and share the gratitude we hold for those who protect and defend our freedoms every day.