Remembrance Day at New Glasgow Academy
The importance of Remembrance Day is imprinted early on students across the country during this time of year with school assemblies and studies.
Like the ceremony at the cenotaph at the 11th hour of 11th day in the 11th month, this school tradition honours the men and women who have sacrificed so much in the conflicts that continue to shape the nation.
At New Glasgow Academy, staff found a way to make the lives of those men and women feel more real for their students.
“It felt heavy,” said Grade 3 student Kylie Dunn.
Dunn was wearing a presentday combat helmet brought to the school by the Nova Scotia Highlanders.
Tables lined the length of one classrooms with uniforms and gear worn by service men and women during nearly a century of conflict, from the First World War to present.
“We really wanted to offer students a more immersive experience,” said New Glasgow Academy music teacher Sheila Aucoin.
Last year Aucoin and the school’s art teacher, Gabrielle
Cheverie, reached out to museum director David Avery to see if they could bring these artifacts to the school.
“We have all these wonderful artifacts and it’s a good way to help out with the community,” said Avery in a phone interview.
This year the Nova Scotia Highlanders also rolled up to the school in a heavy lift truck and students were lined up outside for the chance to take a look inside.
“It’s fun to see all the little kids experiencing and learning,” said North Nova student Gabrielle Dixon, who was helping students try on some equipment donated by Afghanistan veteran Tyson Bowen. Dixon was with a handful of older students with the Royal Canadian Army Cadets taking part in the display.
“We’re trying to make a connection between the past and present,” said Aucoin.