So I’ve been following an issue which while not necessarily controversial has attracted its fair share of attention the past couple of weeks.

2014 Toms River Veterans Day Parade
2014 Toms River Veterans Day Parade (Riverside Signal(
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The subject is Veterans Day which is always celebrated on November 11th and is a day to honor all those who have served in the United States military during times of war and peace. While it is a federal holiday most schools are open and it seems that in recent years that has raised the ire of many.

It’s probably a bit more relevant in our area because Toms River hosts an annual Veterans Day parade which is not well attended; at least not in comparison to other celebratory parades. Of course many blame the small turnout on the fact that schools are open so students cannot attend even if they wanted to. Those in favor of closing schools on Veterans Day believe it will not only result in more young people attending the parade but is an appropriate way to salute our Veterans.

There may be some truth to that but let’s be honest. Many of our holidays are simply “days off” or used as excuses to hold sales with the true meaning all but lost. Closing schools on Veterans Day may help the attendance of the parade in Toms River a bit but for the most part will just be regarded as a day off. Instead every school district should insure that the day itself is used to honor the service of men and women and every effort should be made to work with local veterans groups and organizations.

2014 Toms River veterans Day Parade
2014 Toms River veterans Day Parade (Riverside Signal)
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When cleaning out my father’s apartment recently we found thank you letters from my son’s 6th grade class at Beachwood Elementary School some 17 years ago. As part of Veterans Day my Dad spoke to the class about his time in the Marine Corps and the importance of serving his country. The students got a first-person account and probably a better lesson then they would have with just a day off from school.

My other thought would be for schools to send students in certain grades to the parade each year so they each get to experience it at least one time. I’m sure with a little effort a compromise can be reached.

The bottom line is closing schools on Veterans Day will not guarantee anything except it will be another day working families will have to adjust schedules for child care. Teach students about the meaning of the day and the importance of serving your country and honoring and thanking those who have. That will accomplish much more than just allowing kids to sleep late.

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