Do We Have School on Veterans Day?
Contents
Introduction
Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States that is observed on November 11th every year. It is a day to honor and remember the sacrifices of all military personnel who have served in the United States Armed Forces. But what about schools? Do we have school on Veterans Day? In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide some interesting facts and statistics about Veterans Day.
Do We Have School on Veterans Day?
The answer to this question is no, most schools in the United States do not have school on Veterans Day. Federal holidays are days when federal offices, courts, and banks are closed, and federal employees are given a day off. Veterans Day is one of the 10 federal holidays recognized by the federal government. As a result, most public schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools, are closed on Veterans Day.
Table: Federal Holidays in the United States
Holiday | Date |
---|---|
New Year’s Day | January 1st |
Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Third Monday in January |
Presidents’ Day | Third Monday in February |
Memorial Day | Last Monday in May |
Independence Day | July 4th |
Labor Day | First Monday in September |
Columbus Day | Second Monday in October |
Veterans Day | November 11th |
Thanksgiving Day | Fourth Thursday in November |
Christmas Day | December 25th |
Why is Veterans Day a Federal Holiday?
Veterans Day was originally known as Armistice Day, and it was first observed on November 11, 1919, to commemorate the end of World War I. In 1954, the holiday was renamed Veterans Day to honor all American veterans, not just those who died in World War I. The Uniform Holiday Act of 1968 moved Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October, but it was later changed back to November 11th in 1975.
Interesting Facts and Statistics about Veterans Day
• Over 18 million veterans are currently living in the United States.
• 12% of the population in the United States is a veteran.
• Veterans Day is the busiest shopping day of the year, with many retailers offering special discounts and promotions.
• The National Football League (NFL) has been playing games on Veterans Day since 1991.
• The American Legion, a veterans organization, has been hosting a Veterans Day parade in Indianapolis, Indiana, since 1946.
How Do Schools Celebrate Veterans Day?
While schools may not be in session on Veterans Day, many schools still celebrate the holiday in various ways. Here are some examples:
• Assemblies and presentations: Many schools hold assemblies and presentations to honor veterans and teach students about the significance of Veterans Day.
• Essay contests: Some schools hold essay contests for students to write about their favorite veteran or a veteran who has made a positive impact in their community.
• Service projects: Many schools participate in service projects, such as collecting donations for local food banks or visiting veterans at local hospitals.
• Field trips: Some schools take field trips to local veterans’ memorials or museums to learn more about the history of Veterans Day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, most schools in the United States do not have school on Veterans Day, as it is a federal holiday. However, many schools still celebrate the holiday in various ways, such as assemblies, essay contests, service projects, and field trips. By honoring and remembering the sacrifices of all military personnel who have served in the United States Armed Forces, we can ensure that the sacrifices of these heroes are never forgotten.