Bennett fifth-graders learn that volunteering may offer unique rewards
Susan Norton and her fifth-grade class from Bennett Elementary may not have thought that it was much work to collect carloads of blankets, sweaters, and jackets for the retired veterans who were affected by Hurricane Katrina; but The American Legion contends that the tremendous service deserves to be recognized.
To show their appreciation, the American Legion extended a special invitation to a Presidential Address to Norton and her entire class. The event, held at the Capital Hilton in Washington, D.C. on February 24, offered the students a unique chance to hear President Bush speak in person. Fifth-grade teachers Susan Groundwater and Lesley King; math/science specialist James Amaral; and Principal Sharon Fogarty accompanied the students.
“We thought the students’ efforts needed to be commended and this invitation was just one way to repay their generosity given to our Nation’s veterans,” said Ramona Joyce, media relations manager for The American Legion. “We also thought it would be a nice civics lesson since President’s Day was celebrated this week.”
Norton and her class donated dozens of blankets and articles of clothing to veterans in great need when they were displaced from the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Gulf Port, Mississippi due to Hurricane Katrina. The veterans were moved to the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Washington, D.C., and Norton immediately sent home notes with her students asking for donated items. Together, Norton, her students, and their families pulled together necessary items to help the veterans who came to the area with so little.
“Our veterans had already fought one war. For them to fight another one when their homes were destroyed was just too much, so the American Legion asked for donations. Within two days, Susan Norton brought two carloads of blankets to my house,” said Joyce.
The Bennett Elementary School students were the only students invited to hear the Presidential Address. “Susan Norton has come up with tons of ideas to engage her students; that was what motivated me,” said Joyce. “I think her actions will transcend today’s events…her students will be motivated by her good will. You have a class act in your School Division in Mrs. Norton.”
Upon arrival, students were excited to learn that they were seated in the first few rows of the auditorium, a mere 20 to 30 feet away from the President. The students proudly settled in and listened intently as President Bush spoke primarily about the nation’s continuing efforts to strike out terrorism, but took the time to note his appreciation for the contributions of the American Legion and its supporters.
“I think the kids were impressed with the patriotism that was evident at the event,” says Bennett Elementary Principal Sharon Fogarty, who accompanied the class on the trip. “The students learned an appreciation for the American Legion and their efforts to veterans, and the event showed them how serious an event of war can be.”
Several of the veterans took time to speak with the students, giving them high-fives and thanking them for their hard work and contributions. The class also met Senator John Warner, who spent a few minutes with them to talk about President Bush’s speech.
“A few of the children mentioned how great it was to be in a room full of heroes,” says Fogarty. “I think the students gained a sense of citizenship, a sense of honor, and a great deal of devotion for their country from this trip.”
Judging from the excitement of students, the trip was indeed a big success. Comments included “I liked meeting the veterans we helped out,” and “I can’t believe we met Senator Warner.” One student summed it up simply by saying “I will remember this trip for the rest of my life.”
3/3/06
