Gunston "Purples Up" for Our Military Heroes!

Gunston "Purples Up" for Our Military Heroes!

On Wednesday, April 15th, the cafeteria at Gunston Elementary was transformed into a sea of purple as we celebrated our military-connected students for Purple Up! Day. It was a morning filled with reflection, creativity, and a few "Purple Cows!"

The celebration kicked off with a reading of the book It Takes a Family to Serve , where students shared stories about their own "missions" at home. While enjoying their "Purple Cow" floats (a festive mix of grape soda and vanilla ice cream), students discussed what they love most about being part of a military family-from seeing the world to the pride they feel for their parents’ service.

The highlight of the morning was our collaborative art project, the "Web of Connection." Each student mixed red and blue paint to create their own unique shade of "Military Purple," adding their handprints to community canvases. These canvases are now hung permanently in the cafeteria for all to see. They serve as a lasting reminder of our "hands that serve" and the vital role these students play in supporting their families and our community.

We concluded the event with a recognition ceremony, where each student received a certificate of resilience. To our military students: we see your bravery, we appreciate your sacrifice, and we are so proud to have your hands—and your hearts—as part of our Eagle family.