With Veterans Day 2025 approaching, it is a significant time for our Kansas City schools to consider how we can best acknowledge the individuals who have served our country. Veterans Day is more than a simple holiday; it is a meaningful chance to recognize the sacrifices and commitment of our veterans, ensuring their contributions are remembered. Educational institutions have a key role in shaping how the next generation understands and values patriotism and the actual cost of freedom.
- Raytown’s Salute to Veterans parade and ceremony — a local community event schools can attend or support. Source: visitkc.com
This upcoming Veterans Day is especially important with major anniversaries nearing, such as the 250th for the Army, Marine Corps, and Navy, all leading up to America’s own 250th birthday. These dates provide a strong context for our students to learn about the long and honorable history of military service. By involving students in purposeful activities, our schools can develop a strong sense of respect and thankfulness for our veterans, building a community that genuinely values their service and experiences.
Utilizing Educational Materials and Programs
Schools in Kansas City have many materials available to help create effective Veterans Day events. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers a helpful Veterans Day Teachers Resource Guide. This guide contains lesson plans, historical background, and creative activity suggestions that can make the importance of Veterans Day clear to students of all ages, making learning both interesting and informative.
In addition, the VFW provides excellent youth programs that involve students directly. The “Voice of Democracy” program encourages high school students to explore patriotism through audio essays, offering scholarship awards for winners. For middle schoolers, the “Patriot’s Pen” essay competition offers a similar way for them to express their ideas on patriotism and service, also with scholarship possibilities. Incorporating these VFW programs into classrooms or after-school groups can give students a direct, personal connection to honoring veterans.
- Patriot’s Pen essay contest winner receiving recognition — encouraging middle school participation. Source: vfw.org
Community Involvement and Local Activities
Kansas City has many community events that our schools can join or support to enhance their Veterans Day activities. For example, events like “Raytown’s Salute to Veterans” on November 9, 2025, offer great chances for students to connect with the wider community’s recognition of service. These public gatherings can be inspiring for young people and show a united front of appreciation.
- Youth scholarships and awards promoting student engagement in Veterans Day programs. Source: vfw.org
Creating connections with local veteran groups is another effective way for schools to improve their observances. Working with nearby VFW posts or other veteran support organizations can lead to joint events, educational talks, or even opportunities for guidance. Inviting local veterans to share their personal stories at school assemblies or in classrooms can be very effective, offering students direct accounts of service and sacrifice that have a much deeper impact than textbook information alone.
Supporting Student Veterans and Others
It is important to remember that our school communities might include students who are veterans themselves, continuing their education after serving our country. Providing them with clear details on available support is essential for their success. This includes VA Educational Benefits, which can be looked into by contacting the VA at 1-888-442-4551 or visiting their website. Resources like eBenefits and the WAVE portal (Web Automated Verification of Enrollment) are also important for managing and confirming their educational benefits.
Furthermore, the Missouri Veterans Commission offers valuable assistance at the state level. They can be contacted at (573)751-3779 or via email at movets@mvc.dps.mo.gov, and their portal provides extensive information on benefits. By ensuring these resources are known and accessible, and by creating an inclusive, supportive atmosphere, our schools can truly honor our student veterans. These efforts together help develop a generation that deeply understands, respects, and values the sacrifices made by all who have served.
