IN Chartiers Valley Winter 2019 | Page 10

WHAT’S NEWS IN CHARTIERS VALLEY Pictured L-R: Owen George, Gary Marshall and Brinley Pilarski share a special Veterans Day Thank-You. CHARTIERS VALLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL CLASSES HONOR VETERANS Suzanne Schweikert, a Chartiers Valley Primary School teacher of 25 years, has honored local veterans for more than 20 years during her annual Veterans Day Tea. Her kindergarten class and that of fellow teacher Mrs. Marra entered the room for this year’s event carrying American flags to greet the veterans. They began the program with the Mr. Rogers song, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” The students, staff and veterans all recited the Pledge of Allegiance, sang patriotic songs and recited readings. Students also recited facts about veterans and Veterans Day. A slideshow was then presented, thanking each veteran present. The students from both classes invited family members or friends as their guests. Those present included some who 8 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE ❘ previously served in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines and some who are currently serving. The students introduced their veteran guests and presented a signed placemat to each of them. The veterans spoke about their service branch and duties. Schweikert was teaching second grade when she first started the Veterans Tea with retired teachers Sandy Hallet and Trish Conley years ago. “When I moved to kindergarten, I knew I wanted to continue this event. Even at the age of 5, I feel it is necessary for children to learn about the importance of Veterans Day, who veterans are, and why we should honor them,” she said. Schweikert’s father served in the Army and is a retired state police officer. “My dad has always been my hero,” she added. The Veterans Tea concluded with cookies, punch and coffee. It was a great celebration honoring those who gave us the freedoms we have today. n icmags.com