Minot, N.D. – On Veterans Day, Edison Elementary turned its front yard into a celebration of service as fourth‑grade students marched around the block and performed a music program dedicated to Minot‑area veterans. Flags flew high, banners waved, and the school community gathered to thank those who have protected the nation.
Parade brings families together
Students led a small parade that wound through the neighborhood, handing out handmade signs and bouquets to veterans seated along the route. Camden Ray, a student, was especially moved when his father, a veteran, surprised him by joining the procession. “It felt good seeing my dad come to the parade, because he never told me that he was coming, and it felt like a good gift for him,” Camden said.
Classmate Kora Chick shared a similar reaction. “Honestly, I was kind of shocked he could make it,” she said, noting that her own father also attended. The children’s signs, such as a simple “thank you” flag, added a personal touch to the tribute.
Music teacher guides the tribute
Angela Schnaible, the school’s music teacher, has coordinated the annual Veterans Day music program for five years. She explained that the preparation begins weeks in advance, with students learning a new set of patriotic songs each year. “A lot of times we don’t take the time to just kind of understand what the military does for us. We talk about what veterans are, and what it means to be a veteran, what it means to be in the military before we even start working on the songs,” Schnaible said.
During the performance, the students sang well‑known anthems and presented fresh flowers to veterans in the audience. Schnaible reflected on the emotional impact of the event: “I see all these people standing and people who were willing to risk their lives for all of us, it’s hard not to get emotional for that.”
Community tradition continues
The parade and music program have become an annual tradition at Edison Elementary, fostering a sense of gratitude and connection between the school and the veteran community. The school plans to continue the celebration next year, reinforcing the values of respect, service, and family that are central to Minot’s civic life.
Local veterans and their families expressed appreciation for the students’ efforts, noting that the event reminded the broader community of the sacrifices made by service members. The Edison Sparks, the school’s mascot group, received praise for bringing joy and a lasting memory to those who served.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
