At Wilder Elementary on Nov. 9, second-graders performed the story “America’s White Table.” The students sang “Little White Table,” arranged by music teacher Melissa Headrick. Veterans and parents Brigitte Pronovost and Tom McAndrew narrated the story by Margot Theis Raven.

During the story, a child learns about her uncle’s service in Vietnam, where he was a prisoner of war. He escaped with another soldier who did not survive. The missing soldier still has a place at the table though. Students set the little table while the narrator explained the significance of each item: a white tablecloth, an empty chair, a black napkin, an upside down glass, a white candle and a red rose.

The students also included thank-you letters on the table, which will be delivered to soldiers. One student wrote “H-E-R-O” on the table in salt.

On Nov. 7, fifth-graders at Rosa Parks Elementary honored veterans with their music. Students played taps on recorders and the color guard escorted the flag to the back of the gym.

Teacher Katie DeFazio’s father is a veteran. He had a chance to meet her kindergarten class and attend the assembly. The school also created a “Wall of Honor” with the names of veterans from their families and community.