Sanford Pride Elementary's fourth-grade chorus brought joy to Pinnacle Health and Rehab Nursing Facility Friday morning, uniting the school department's young musicians with local veterans and residents in a special Veterans Day performance.
The students, who began rehearsing in September, took their musical talents beyond school walls to honor residents and veterans living at the Sanford facility. The performance marked a shift from previous years' veterans' projects, as students expressed interest in reaching out directly to the community, according to Sanford Pride Music Teacher Meaghan Mannino.
"We've been discussing the significance of Veterans Day and what it means to be a veteran," Mannino said. "We've also talked about how veterans live all around our community – they can even be our family members, neighbors, and teachers. Students are understanding and appreciating the significance of thanking our veterans, which is really amazing to see from such a young age group."
The chorus performed two selections, "Thank You To Our Veterans" and "On Veteran's Day," focusing on themes of gratitude and recognition for service. Throughout their preparation, students learned about the courage and sacrifices made by service members to keep our country safe.
The staff at Pinnacle Home welcomed the young performers warmly, incorporating their performance into the facility's Veterans Day social event and inviting other members of the community. Residents and students alike shared smiles throughout the morning celebration.
The musical tribute provided students with both an opportunity to share their talents and a deeper understanding of veterans' vital role in our nation's history. As the fourth graders sang their appreciation, they demonstrated that meaningful community connections can start at any age.