Meadow Hill School Honors Our Veterans During 19th Annual Celebration

The halls of Meadow Hill School buzzed with purpose and patriotism as the community gathered for the 19th Annual Veterans Day Breakfast. This cherished tradition is a deeply personal way for the students and staff to give back and express thanks to the brave men and women who served our nation.

The day began with fifth-grade students standing ready to greet and welcome our honored guests. As the veterans took their seats, the stirring melody of "My Country, 'Tis of Thee" filled the room, played beautifully by the 7th and 8th Grade Band under the direction of Mr. Rickey.

The program continued with a moment of formality and reverence. Master Sgt. Christian Granda and the NFA Air Force ROTC presented the Colors, an inspiring sight followed by a magnificent rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" performed by Major Mary Kay Messenger. The Pledge of Allegiance was then led by Mrs. Dickson and Mrs. Candal's 4th Grade Class, reminding everyone of the flag that has seen so many perilous fights.

Principal Mrs. Durr offered heartfelt Words of Welcome, setting a tone of profound appreciation before the National Junior Honor Society stepped forward to serve the much-anticipated breakfast.

The heart of the morning belonged to the students. The veterans were showered with tokens of gratitude: Second Graders presented personal Letters to our Veterans, while Ms. Soule's class and Mrs. Pozzuoli and Mrs. Lamantia's classes offered hand-crafted Cards and Paper Hearts/Squares. Even the youngest students, Ms. Short and Mrs. Camilleri’s 1st Grade class, contributed their cards and letters.

The presentations continued with a moving recitation of Joanna Fuchs' poem, "They Did Their Share," performed by students from Ms. Schueler and Ms. Walker's classes. Kindergarten students, led by Ms. Murphy, performed the lively song "Did You Ever Wave a Flag," and her 1st Graders followed with "See the Veteran." The musical finale was a grand event, featuring the combined 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Chorus. They first performed "America the Beautiful," led by Mr. Rickey and Ms. Shackleton, and concluded with the rousing "I Love That Grand Old Flag," led by Ms. Shackleton alone.

Mrs. Durr returned for Closing Remarks, bringing the formal program to a close and echoing the day's central message of gratitude. The whole event was truly a labor of love, brought to life not only by the performers but by the whole community: the PTO handled organization and donations, the Kitchen Staff donated their time, Mrs. Winfield-Corbett captured the moments as event photographer, and students from the 4th Grade (placemats), K-2 ESL (table décor), and 3rd/Ms. Heim’s 8th Graders (table cards) ensured every surface reflected the respect we hold for our veterans. Mrs. Camilleri even provided delicious desserts!

Meadow Hill School extends its deepest thanks to all the generous businesses and individuals—including McDonald's, Starbucks, Hannaford, Stop & Shop, the Town of Newburgh PD, Vesuvio’s Ristorante, Foti Florist, Noto’s Deli, Panera, Elk’s, Restaurant Depot, Adams, Perkins, and Zafar Produce—whose support ensures this important celebration continues year after year.

PHOTOS | Meadow Hill School Honors Our Veterans During 19th Annual Celebration

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!