The JKHA middle school students took the opportunity to express their hakarat hatov to veterans in honor of Veterans Day. Following an interactive language arts lesson in which they discussed the significance of Veterans Day as well as the symbolism of iconic American images, including a saluting soldier and the American flag, the students were introduced to Japanese Haiku poems. This short form of poetry encourages students to consider the meaning of language, choose poignant phrasing and recognize the impact of punctuation and line breaks. With an emphasis on articulating gratitude for the service and sacrifices of veterans throughout our country’s history, each student crafted a unique Haiku that incorporated their interpretation of American values as the foundation of the fabric of the United States.

The students’ poems, written on red, white and blue papers, were used to create a compelling visual of a large American flag, proudly displayed in the middle school hallway as a continued reminder of our appreciation for those who have sacrificed in the service of this country.