Westboro Elementary commemorates Remembrance Day each year with its Wall of Honour and Westboro Family Tribute.

Sherwood Park, AB. — Staff and students throughout Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) are leading in-person or virtual Remembrance Day ceremonies on November 3. The ceremonies will pay tribute to those who have served in the armed forces during times of war and peace. These events are a reminder to everyone across the Division the freedoms enjoyed today came at a terrible cost.

“Remembrance Day allows students to listen and reflect on the stories of those who’ve served and continue to serve our country,” says Cathy Allen, the Board Chair of EIPS. “Communities come together at school ceremonies across the Division to ensure the memories of the fallen live on within our minds and within our hearts.”

Ceremonies planned in schools will include assemblies, student art projects, choir and music performances, guest speakers from the Canadian Armed Forces, the laying of wreaths, a moment of silence and the playing of bagpipes. Students will also spend the day learning about the sacrifices and contributions Canadian veterans have made over the years and the significance of the poppy worn on Remembrance Day.

This year, Westboro Elementary will continue its tradition of commemorating families on the school’s Wall of Honour and Westboro Family Tribute. “They’re a meaningful part of how we recognize Remembrance Day as a school community,” says Courtney Richard, the teacher at Westboro Elementary who started the two initiatives. “For Remembrance Day to resound with our students, we believed there needed to be a connection with those who serve, or have served, in our Canadian Armed Forces. What better way than with people we know and care about. It’s with a great amount of pride and respect they’re honoured each year within our school.”

Westboro Elementary will also hold its Remembrance Day ceremony, gifting each student and visiting guest a toy soldier to remind them to think of those serving and to spark conversation at home.

“Remembrance Day is a tradition,” says Aviator Sarah Giberson with the Royal Canadian Air Force and a Westboro parent recognized on the Wall of Honour and Westboro Family Tribute. “A cherished day to remember those who serve currently, all those who served before us and those who lost their lives protecting our country. The wall and family tribute ensure every generation will do just that. Having the children find out who they know or who is or was in their families and what they did for their country are foundations to keep this tradition alive.”

Details about specific events planned at other schools throughout the Division are available on school websites or by contacting your local school.

“It makes me feel safe,” says Hugo Diaz, a Grade 2 student at Westboro Elementary, about the two traditions at the school. “My great grandpa was a soldier in World War II, so it makes me feel special.”

Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,750 students in 42 schools. We are proud to be an integral part of our communities, including Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Vegreville, Strathcona and Lamont counties, and the western portion of the County of Minburn.

RELATED INFORMATION:
Alberta-NWT Command Legion
The Royal Canadian Legion

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For more information contact:
Laura McNabb, Director, Communication Services, EIPS 780-417-8204 cell 780-405-4902