CORDOVA – Cordova Middle School students are proving that young people today have a strong concept of national pride and helping others. And all with the help of Ms. Toni Maples, who teaches Career and Technical Education (CTE).
As part of their course assignment requirements, Cordova’s CTE students are asked to help with a community project of some magnitude. While there are some relatively easy endeavors available, no less than 25 of Maples’ CTE students volunteered to assist with a big one: the Rockingham Veterans’ Day Parade.
Over the course of two full weeks, the Cordova CTE participants developed more than 60 individualized posters and signs pertaining to the theme of military veterans and what their service has meant for our country.
“They wanted to understand more about the true meaning of Veterans’ Day and see what the parade was all about,” Maples said. “So, we decided to do this project.”
Upon learning of the students’ interest, VFW Post 4203 Auxiliary President Robin Roberts ensured that (with the help from Maness Tire Service) the VFW was able to provide a float truck in the parade especially for their youthful supporters from Cordova.
Roberts also wanted to recognize these students for their outstanding contributions. She had certificates of appreciation printed and, during a brief ceremony in the reception area of the school, presented each of the deserving kids with their individualized award.
The following students were recognized for their outstanding service and assistance in relation to their support of veterans in general and the Rockingham Veterans’ Day Parade in particular:
Jenna Blevins, Tamia Broady, Destiny Brigman, Caleigh Brock, Manases Cruz, Jennifer Culley, Sebastian Fullwood, Louis Gernandez, Monte Gilmore, Lisbeth Gomez, Dylan Harris, Richard Hatchell, Elijah Hester, Jabori Hiester, Inia Hough, Devin Langley, Alexis McDonald, Kalazia Nicholson, Randi Shankle, Messiah Shaw, Kaylee Speagle, Jackson Stogner Iyana Wall, Blakelynn Walton and Layla Wilkes.
