St. Thomas students get lessons about armed forces

This November, Kindergarten students at St. Thomas the Apostle School have been learning how members of the armed services help others in our country and around the globe. Their teachers, Danielle Riley and Laurel Schaffman, read stories to the children about the different branches of the armed services and how each group serves our country and helps people in different ways.  Several students whose parents or other relatives currently serve, or have recently served in the armed services, brought in pictures and shared stories.  Two students brought in dolls that were made and given to them by a parent who was stationed overseas. 

The teachers explained that being a member of the armed services is not just about going to war.  "Men and women who serve in the military can also be doctors, nurses, medics and other professionals who care for people in need,"  Miss Schaffman told the students.  The students learned that these adults are very brave, but they are still people, just like us.  While serving our country, and especially when they come home after their service, they need our extra care and support.

Teachers and students incorporated their study of the subject into multiple areas of the curriculum: Religion, art and literacy:  In Religion class, the students talked about the importance of showing our love and appreciation to others. They also learned even the bravest of people still need a word of encouragement now and then.  In art class, students created beautifully hand-painted flags, which were laminated and can be used as placemats.  In literacy centers, students practiced their best handwriting to write letters thanking the veterans for the many ways they help people across the world.  The placemats and letters were delivered to the Newington VA Clinic by Miss Schaffman and Miss Riley on Saturday, November 9^th, with plans for similar projects later in the school year, particularly near Memorial Day.  Later this month, students will correspond via email with Miss Riley's cousin, Blake Savard, who is in the Air Force and currently stationed in California.  The students are looking forward to learning more about his job and how he came to join the military. 

 "This project provided a great opportunity for our students to learn how they can help others, even at their young age.  Our discussions also inspired some interesting conversations about what the children might like to be when they grow up," she added.   

 

Caption for photo:  St. Thomas the Apostle School Kindergarten students show some of the projects they made which were given to veterans at the Newington VA Clinic.  Standing is: Sydney Campbell, Dorothy Fox, Weston Samson and Chantelle Rodriguez.  Sittting (from l to r) is:  Donovan Dowd and Sophia Garza.