Behind every strong soldier is an even stronger family.
That’s why this November APS is proud to recognize Veterans and Military Families Appreciation Month.
At Edna and John W. Mosley P-8, which sits adjacent to Buckley Space Force Base, over 30% of students belong to a military family.
With that in mind, it’s no surprise that patriotism, sacrifice and service run deep through the roots of the school, which recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary.
“Veterans and Military Families Appreciation Month holds deep meaning for our community, especially in a school that honors the legacy of Edna and John W. Mosley,” Principal Kelly Lopata said. “Recognizing our military families during this month allows us to celebrate those same qualities in the families we serve. It is a time to honor their strength, acknowledge their sacrifices, and reaffirm our commitment to providing stability and connection for students who experience the unique rhythms of military life. This month reminds us that service is woven into our school’s identity, just as it was woven into the Mosleys’ lives.”
As part of a school-wide project, students hand-wrote letters to veterans thanking them for keeping our country safe.
Adrian Muro Mureno, Second Grade
“Dear Veteran. Thank you so much for keeping us little humans safe. You deserve love and kindness for serving and protecting us no matter what. I think you are very brave because you go to war even though there is a chance you can die. I think you guys aren’t afraid of anything. You go through intense training and it’s amazing how you never back down.”
Kyle Boudreau, Fourth Grade
“Dear Veteran. I don’t know you but I want to thank you for your service. Thank you for taking risks for this country. You sacrificed a lot of things and we appreciate that so much. You are a courageous and brave leader. You have done a great job defending America. Thank you so much.”
Akhari Isaac, First Grade
“Dear Veteran. Thank you. You are amazing because you put yourself in danger to keep us safe.”
Adylene Renovato, Sixth Grade
“Dear Service Member. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. I am so very thankful and grateful for your dedication and bravery you show every day. I am very honored that you are or did serve in the military and deeply respect your commitment while being away from your family. You are a special person who is fighting to stay alive and make sure I live freely and have a good life and eat well. You are a true person and try your best and keep going. You may think it’s hard–it is–but I know you can keep going. If you see this, it would be a blessing if you were to write me back.”
This month, we recognize the contributions of veterans and military families throughout the APS community and salute those who bear the weight and pride of those who serve.
All across the district, military families uplift APS with their resilience, courage and deep belief in the power of education and community.
“Their presence enriches our school culture with global perspectives, lived experiences of service, and a remarkable spirit of adaptability,” Lopata said. “These families strengthen our sense of unity and purpose, reminding us every day that our school is part of something bigger than ourselves. Their contributions echo the Mosley legacy by reinforcing that community thrives when people show up for one another with commitment and heart.”