ADAMS, Mass. — Third-graders at Hoosac Valley Elementary School offered a patriotic salute ahead of Memorial Day. 

 

"They have been tasked with reflecting on Memorial Day and what it means to them with learning songs and poems to share with you," said Principal Erin Beaulac in welcoming visitors. "We're incredibly proud of all of their hard work."

 

The celebration at Hoosac Elementary was coordinated by teacher Marie McCarron, who led a similar event at Brayton Elementary School in North Adams for years.

 

Members of American Legion Post 160 formed the color guard and parents and guests including state Sen. Paul Mark and state Rep. John Barrett III listened to musical performances and readings. 

 

Maverick Pytko, David Plouff, Nina Naugle and Charli Phillips led the Pledge of Allegiance and Rosalie Lazzari, Olive Mastra and Bella D'Elia read a poem. Ethan Thompson read a history of Memorial Day, student essays were written and read by Christopher Kane, Remington Door, Annika Marko and Payton Hnatonko; and Colton Benoit, Connor Bak and Justin Mayotte and Rosalie introduced the speakers. 

 

Lexi Larabee, 11, sang the "Star-Spangled Banner" without accompaniment and the entire third grade sang "This Land Is Your Land" and a rap version of the Pledge of Allegiance. 

 

"They have put so many hours of work into this show," said music teacher Abbie Smith. "Because for all them this is new. Standing on stage in front of people is new to them. Sharing their words on a microphone is a new skill."