Message Regarding Remembrance Day 2019 at Brant Hills Public School

Nov. 15, 2019

Dear families of Brant Hills Public School,

I am writing to you to address recent media coverage regarding how Brant Hills Public School recognized Remembrance Day this year.

I would like to begin by stating that Brant Hills Public School, along with all schools in the Halton District School Board are committed to honouring the sacrifice and service of Canada’s military and to providing students with meaningful learning experiences that increase their knowledge, appreciation and understanding of those who have and continue to serve this country.

On Monday, Nov. 11, Brant Hills held an emotional Remembrance Day ceremony where all students and staff were joined by more than 30 family members. In the week prior to Remembrance Day, each class at our school created a wreath, which students laid across the stage at the beginning of the ceremony. Grade 8 students incorporated into their wreaths what they had researched about specific veterans and their unique contributions. Students, staff, parents/guardians and other attendees stood as the band played O Canada.

Teachers at Brant Hills Public School refer to the Royal Canadian Legion Teaching Guide when developing lesson plans for student learning ahead of Remembrance Day. This guide reinforces the fact that the “nature of a Remembrance Day program will vary from school to school”. This acknowledges the fact that there may be many variations in how schools recognize this important day, but active participation of students is key.

Students led the ceremony, speaking about the importance of Remembrance Day and honouring the service and sacrifice of Canadian military, the significance of the poppy, and reflected on the freedom we have as Canadians.

Following a performance of “Let It Be” by the Glee Club, a moment of silence was held. The Grade 1-2 class sang “Light a Candle for Peace” and Flanders Fields was read. The school band performed the “Arrival of Normandy” and the music club played “Song of Peace”.

Following the school assembly, students organized into their ‘Hawks Groups’ to talk about words and symbols that represent peace. Students designed and coloured poppies and doves that were put up in the front of the school, forming a Peace Chain.

Students’ art pieces remain hung around the school for students, staff and families to reflect on their meaning, symbolism and significance.

We understand that there are some who have expressed concern regarding the fact that our schedule did not allow us to observe a moment of silence exactly at 11 a.m. This is something that we will do our best to accommodate in the future. However, we do hope the information provided demonstrates the commitment of our staff and students to honour the sacrifice and service of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Sincerely,

Drew Donaldson

Principal

Brant Hills PS