Schools make commitment, honor Veterans Day
By HOLLY GASKILL
Bluffton and Norwell high schools have both recently received designations as an Indiana Purple Star School, signifying their commitment to honoring and serving veterans.
To receive this designation, a school must appoint a point of contact for military families, host programs to honor veterans, commit to interviewing and hiring qualified veterans, and adopt a district resolution of support for military families and service members, among other items. In a press release Friday, the Indiana Department of Education announced that 131 Indiana schools received this designation this year.
The Purple Star designation is valid for three years.
“At Bluffton High School, and throughout our district, we strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment for our military families, acknowledging the unique experiences and sacrifices they bring to our school community,” said Brad Yates, superintendent of Bluffton-Harrison schools, in a press release. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students, who work to ensure that those who serve our country — and their families — feel valued and supported.”
Assistant Principal Stacy Morrison serves as the point of contact for BHS military families and Herb Bergman, industrial technology teacher and military veteran, for NHS. Each school also has a veteran resource page on its website.
“We are honored to host these heroes who have served to protect our great nation,” said Norwell Middle School Principal Andrew Enderle on Monday. “We will be forever indebted to you, others who have served, and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice laying down their lives for us here at home.”
Both districts also honored Veterans Day with programs on Monday.
BHS students heard from Tom Baker, who served in the Army in Vietnam and Europe. He is also the brother of Principal Steve Baker.
The parents of senior Jase Harmon spoke to NHS students — Chief Master Sergeant Joe Lewis, a Norwell graduate, and Master Sergeant Ashley Harmon, who grew up in Ossian: Both serve in the Indiana Air National Guard.
holly@news-banner.com
