Grandparents lined up in front of Veterans Memorial Elementary School anxiously awaiting the time to meet up with their little ones for the Annual Grandparents' Day Celebration held on September 9.
As the visitors arrived, a group of students called the “safety patrol” escorted them to their grandchildren’s classrooms or cafeteria, depending on the child’s schedule. Some of the guests brought special treats for their grandchildren such as fast food or snacks.
Every year, students have this opportunity to invite grandparents to their school to see what they have been learning in the new year. The visitors also get to participate in fun activities like Bingo and Loteria.
Principal Luz Edith Serna Ramirez says the school serves 820 students from pre-k to 5th grades, and last year about 500 grandparents attended. They expected about the same number again this year.
The grandparents get to sit with the students and see projects they are working on and witness first-hand how education is evolving with technology.
Principal Ramirez says this is a wonderful opportunity to open school doors to the community, especially for grandparents who play such a vital role in the students' lives.
“In our community, the grandparents are another set of parents, and they help instill the values and traditions of our culture, as well as the importance of respect in the family,” states Ramirez. “Respect for our elderly is important in our border town,” she stresses.
The kids were very excited to see their grandparents and give them thank you letters, which were prepared for the visitors.
“They thanked the grandparents for spending time with them cooking, baking, and buying and sharing favorite foods like pizza, and reading books,” says Principal Ramirez.
Many UISD schools set aside time every year to observe and celebrate Grandparents’ Day. It’s an important way to show appreciation for the love and support they share with their grandchildren.
“My mom always used to say I love my children, but I’m able to spend more time with my grandkids and enjoy their company,” recalls the principal.
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