October 26, 2020

Students, Parents, teachers, staff, and our community members, 

As we move forward with the school year, we find ourselves continuing to be impacted in so many ways by this pandemic that is upon us.  First of all, and of most importance, I hope that everyone is well, and remains well as we move through these somewhat uncharted times that we have experienced, and continue face for the near term.  

As our school year has progressed and continues to do so we have come upon special events, activities, and special days that have been impacted by this crisis and in the near term we will experience more of this.  Typically, each year we take the time on November 11th to honor those who have served in our military in support of our great nation.  The students, staff and community gather as a collective group to honor veterans in attendance and those not, for their service.  

Over the many years we have done this, the students and staff of our school have done a remarkable and tremendous job in organizing and implementing a program for these veterans.  As you can imagine, it comes with a sense of sadness to let you know that we will not be able to do this on this coming Veteran’s day, November 11th 2020.  The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9536 held its monthly meeting recently and the ceremony at the school was discussed.  It was demonstrably apparent, their desire, to not in any way or in any format, put the students, staff, and our community members in a position to potentially be impacted by this pandemic.  In discussions with the administration of the school it became absolutely apparent that the individual desires of both parties was consistent with keeping the district and the health and welfare of all potentially involved as the highest priority.  

Also, during this ceremony on Veterans Day, the local VFW post from Mercer presents awards to the students who participate in the Patriot Pen and Voice of Democracy contests which are held annually by the post.   This year the competition for the students in both categories will occur.  Given the event at the school will not occur this year, the local VFW post officers will work with the Administration, staff and students to facilitate the awards to all participants in the contests via a likely “virtual” format of sort.  The specifics of this will be communicated to all involved, as they emerge in the near future.

I would ask that in spite of the cancellation of the event for this year, that all please take a moment on November 11th, at 11 minutes after 11 o’clock to reflect in honor of those who have and continue to serve in our military branches for our great nation.  Many thanks.  

Bob Davis

President 

Mercer School Board