JCSB votes to recognize Veterans Day 2025

By: Shelia Mader

Jenel D'Alessandro

At their July meeting, the Jackson County School Board unanimously approved the recognition of Veterans Day in 2025 as an official school observance. The motion was made by board member M.J. Jackson and seconded by Chephus Granberry, passing with a 5-0 vote.

The decision includes a half-day release for students and staff, with strong encouragement for all schools in the district to actively participate in Veterans Day activities and programs.  During the discussion, board member Chephus Granberry emphasized the importance of school involvement in not only Veterans Day but also other community parades and celebrations such as Christmas and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Superintendent Hunter Nolen responded, “Almost mandate Mr. Granberry. I know in years past, I went to school and have been in this district for a long time and worked in this district for a long time. Some days, some years we had Veterans Day off, some we didn't. Some fell on the weekend, some fell on a Monday but yes, sir, you're correct.”

Granberry expressed support, stating, “When our kids come out, the parents come out,” highlighting the broader community impact of student participation. Board members recalled past inconsistencies in recognizing Veterans Day and spoke in favor of creating a more uniform and meaningful approach moving forward.

Superintendent and board members noted that schools often hold Veterans Day programs in the morning, and the new policy will ensure greater consistency and respect for the day’s significance.