Mossy Head School honored our Veterans with a special program on Friday, November 9. Students were led by Mr. William Goodman through a variety of patriotic songs to honor our veterans. Our guest speaker was Sgt. Joshua Casey with the United States Marine Corps. We are thankful to all who attended, especially our veterans who were our honored guests. Submitted by Elizabeth Gaither
Maude Saunders Elementary School 5th graders honored our Veterans with a special salute on Friday, November 9 at MSE. Music teacher Cathy Drake led the students through a variety of musical numbers, all with the theme of pride and remembrance, to show the veterans who were guests in the audience just how much they are respected and appreciated! The students performed "Military Medley" in which they honored and recognized each branch of military service, and invited the guest veterans to stand as the tune representing their service branch was sung. Students shared poems. sign language, a Veterans Acrostic, and short skits. Special thanks to all who were involved in putting this meaningful and significant program together!
Freeport Middle School hosted a special Veterans Day Program in collaboration with Freeport High School and Freeport Elementary School on Friday, November 9 in the Freeport Middle School gymnasium.
Musical performances by the FHS Sunshine Band and the FES SophistiCats entertained and inspired the audience. FMS Student Council officer Trinity Gilbert gave a presentation on “America’s White Table” and Kimberly Miller, a teacher at FMS, performed a Veterans Version of the song “Hallelujah”.
Principal Josh Harrison gave a welcome address and acknowledged special guest veterans. Guest speaker for the event was Captain Sean Sherlock.
Thanks to all for their participation this meaningful program! The Freeport schools extend a special “thank you” to all Veterans for their service and dedication.
Students at MHS brought in donations to support the victims of Hurricane Michael. The donations were delivered to Golson Elementary School in Marianna, FL. Submitted by Elizabeth Gaither
Sgt. James Stromenger highlighted the Veterans Day assembly Wednesday morning for West DeFuniak Elementary students. Sgt. Stromenger served three years active duty in the Army and 12 years in the Alabama National Guard. He currently works as a sergeant at the Walton County Correctional Institute. Sgt. Stromenger reminded students of the importance of Veteran’s Day and serving others.
Sgt. Stromenger is pictured with his wife, Amber Stromenger, WDE paraprofessional.
Families and students enjoyed a tradition Thanksgiving feast at lunch on Thursday, November 8, prepared by the incredible Freeport Elementary Cafeteria staff! Submitted by Laurie Langford
This past weekend, the PHS cross country team competed in the Regional meet. At the meet, the team placed 8th overall and were the first public school to finish. The team ran their hardest and displayed PRIDE, PASSION, and PURPOSE throughout the meet. We are all very proud of you, Bobcats!
Regionals Team (Pictured L to R): Cage Wibbing, Philip Anderson, Conner Gaither, Lawson Geoghagan, Ragan Butts, Jacob Morgan, Nick Johnson, Coach Laurie Gilbert, Blaine Johnston, and Eugene Hall.
Submitted by Kalli McMillan
Walton Middle School hosted their 46th Annual Veteran's Day program in honor of our local heroes - our military veterans. Veterans and their families were welcomed warmly as the administration, staff and entire student body showed respect and appreciation for their service. Visitors had the opportunity to view a special Veteran's Day visual art display in the gymnasium lobby. The Walton Middle School Band and Chorus presented patriotic selections reflecting the sacrifice our military veterans make to secure liberty and safety for each and every citizen of our great nation. Students led the program with special tributes, and Assistant Principal Scott Hulion read a "roll call" recognizing each of the Veterans and their specific branch of service.
The Walton High School Color Guard added to the significance of the event with the presentation of the Colors and Service flags. The WHS Drill team gave an incredible rifle demonstration and flag folding ceremony.
Special guests from Eglin Air Force Base Military Working Dog program gave an exciting and informative demonstration on how their canine soldiers and their handlers help to safeguard military bases from intruders, and detect minute traces of explosives and drugs. TSgt Garver narrated while SSgt Wise w/ MWD Ajda and
SSgt Castilleja w/ MWD Arko took the canines through some of their drills.
Superintendent Russell Hughes shared his heart-felt appreciation to the veterans at the conclusion of the program. "On behalf of 10,000 students and over 1500 employees, let me thank you for your service. It is because of YOU, and men and women like you, that our country is safe and protected on a daily basis."
A reception for the Veterans was held in the library following the program.
