Centeno Elementary Honors Veterans with a Heartfelt Celebration

American flags waved and patriotic music filled the hallways at Centeno Elementary as students welcomed veterans and their loved ones for a special Veterans Day celebration, which began with a traditional parade around the school.

Lining the halls and waiting patiently for their guests to pass by, the Centeno Bucks helped create a memorable afternoon honoring the bravery, courage and dedication of those who served our country. The children waved their tiny flags with pride and excitement, and their Veterans Day artwork decorated the hallways.

The afternoon celebration gave students and staff an opportunity to show their gratitude as veterans walked alongside their family members. For the honored guests, the route offered a warm welcome from an entire campus eager to recognize their service.

Principal Cynthia Sierra said the tradition has taken place for several years as a way to thank veterans and surround them with appreciation and love from the school community. The campus welcomed the veterans whose service is part of the history of its own Buck families.

Invitations were shared with students’ families, encouraging them to bring parents, grandparents and friends who are veterans. Families also had the opportunity to submit photographs and information about their veterans so they could receive recognition during the program.

Following the parade, guests gathered in the gymnasium for a ceremony featuring the school’s GEMS dancers, choir and National Elementary Honor Society members. Through dance, song, historical reflections and a poem, students paid tribute to America’s veterans, past and present, while learning more about the meaning of their service.

School counselors Angelica Charles and Myrna Canales helped organize the celebration, which brought students, staff and families together in a shared expression of respect and gratitude.

After the ceremony, veterans enjoyed lunch, snacks and time with their loved ones at tables arranged for the gathering. Families were also welcome to bring their own food, making the afternoon an opportunity to share a meal and create memories together.

Observed each November 11, Veterans Day honors all who have served in the United States Armed Forces, in wartime and in peace. At Centeno Elementary, that appreciation came to life through the flags in students’ hands, the care behind their performances and the warm welcome extended to every veteran.

For the royal blue and gold Buck family, the message was simple and heartfelt. Thank you for your service, your sacrifices and your dedication to our country.

“We want our veterans to feel the love and appreciation of our entire school,” said Principal Cynthia Sierra. “This tradition gives our students an opportunity to thank them, recognize their sacrifices and show them how much their service means to our Buck family.”