The month of April was designated as the Month of the Military Child. The staff and administration at Evergreen Elementary would like to recognize our military families and all that they do to support our school. In spite of the daily challenges and sacrifices faced by our military families, they remain active and involved in our school community. The countless hours of volunteer service and unwavering support is most appreciated and is a testament to their commitment to their children’s education.

In an effort to show our gratitude and acknowledge the growing number of military families at Evergreen we developed a plan at the beginning of the school year that included three initiatives that would provide additional support and opportunities to our military students. We had a Kids Night Out in December specifically for these students and organized a Support Our Troops care package initiative in January. In addition, our counselor, Denise Coyne, meets weekly with a support group comprised of students who have a deployed parent.

This month we hosted a Career Day that specifically focused on military jobs and highlighted civilian jobs that aid and support the military community.

Through our partnership with the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and deputy James Stone we developed new partnerships with Amelex and The Promise Resource Center. Amelex provided Evergreen with a computer so that military students are now able to Skype with a deployed parent during recess. The Promise Resource Center donated eight video cameras that students can use to send videos. Both of these partners are solidly committed to assisting us in our desire to give back to our military families.

I am extremely grateful and wish to thank the entire school community for all that they do on a daily basis to support our staff and students. I also would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all of those who helped us celebrate the military children at Evergreen and acknowledge the sacrifices made by those students and their families.

Kim Summers, California

The writer is principal of Evergreen Elementary School.