Veterans Day serves as a powerful reminder of the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of those who have served our nation. Garrard County Schools proudly honors these heroes, recognizing the importance of teaching our students the meaning of service, gratitude, and freedom. Across the district, classrooms and communities came together this week to celebrate the men and women who have worn the uniform of our Armed Forces.
Every GCS school found its own special way to show appreciation. Our elementary schools hosted Veterans Day breakfasts, giving students and staff an opportunity to sit down with the local heroes in their lives. Some schools held parades, lining the hallways with cheering students and waving flags as veterans walked proudly alongside them.
At the high school, students experienced a Veterans Day program that helped them reflect on the significance of service and sacrifice. The program featured guest speaker Sergeant First Class Tincher, who inspired students with stories of commitment, leadership, and resilience.
The most extensive celebration took place at Garrard Middle School, where students and staff collaborated to create a community event that truly embodied the spirit of Veterans Day. The program showcased a wide range of student talents and leadership. The JAG students led the planning and coordination of the event—from decorations and digital media, to program design and ceremony flow—while the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America Club students prepared and served breakfast for all honored guests. The GMS Choir and Band performed several patriotic selections, and the JROTC cadets proudly presented the colors.
The program also featured Army Veteran and Lancaster Elementary Assistant Principal Retired Sergeant First Class Craig Boyd as the guest speaker, who inspired both students and community members with his message about service, sacrifice, and the importance of honoring those who protect our freedoms.
“I could not be prouder of our students and staff for the respect, care, and attention they put into honoring our veterans,” said Dr. Audrey Nichols, Principal of Garrard Middle School. “Our students approached every detail of this event with professionalism and heart. They wanted everything to be perfect for the men and women who have given so much for our country. We are truly grateful to the veterans who joined us and allowed our students the opportunity to show their appreciation in such a meaningful way.”
Dr. Kevin Stull, GCS Superintendent, said, “Veteran’s Day is such an important day for our students and staff. The chance to say Thank You to true heroes is an incredible honor. I am incredibly proud of our students and staff for the thought, effort, and care they put into recognizing these brave men and women. Their dedication ensures that the sacrifices of our veterans are remembered and appreciated by the next generation.”
Garrard County Schools extends its deepest gratitude to all veterans—past, present, and future—for their courage and commitment. Through these celebrations, GCS continues to ensure that students not only learn about Veterans Day, but truly feel the importance of honoring those who have given so much for our country.
Click the link listed below to view all photos from GMS' Veterans Day event:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1PapTxu2T96jkLTvsWLLbcqwfzQQdR2r0?usp=sharing