Today, in honor of Veterans Day, Orchard hosted meaningful activities across the school to recognize and honor those who have served.

 

Student Leadership Committee led a special assembly where they interviewed several members of our Orchard community who have served in the military. Sixth Grade Science Teacher Ragen Mitchell (Air Force), Facilities Director Everette Sasser (Army), Outdoor Education Teacher Jason Peterson (Marine Corps), and Receptionist Majella Scheer (Australian Army Reserves) shared their experiences and stories, providing insight into their service and sacrifice.

 

In the evening, Orchard hosted the second event in our Dignity Center Presents… speaker series, sponsored by The National Bank of Indianapolis. Moderated by Ragen Mitchell, a U.S. Air Force veteran and sixth-grade science teacher, this panel discussion invited veterans from our community to share their personal stories and experiences.

 

Our distinguished panelists included:

 

This was an engaging way for the Orchard community to connect with these veterans, honor their service, and deepen our understanding of their contributions. We are grateful to each panelist for sharing their stories and to Mr. Mitchell for guiding this impactful conversation. Also thanks to Ed Hollinger, Sarah Edwards, Erica McGovern, and Amanda Goedde for overseeing this event.

 

Orchard’s middle school students have been learning about the American flag’s history and symbolism, understanding it as a symbol of national pride, unity, and sacrifice. Students practiced raising, lowering, and folding the flag in accordance with official regulations, ensuring it’s treated with care and respect. Each week, student volunteers will continue these duties, fostering a sense of honor, pride, and responsibility as they uphold this important community tradition.

 

To inspire their efforts, the students were moved by the lyrics from Johnny Cash’s Ragged Old Flag: