Schools in Madison and Huntsville, Alabama, go all-in when Veterans Day rolls around. From student-led events that salute local heroes to special tributes organized by community-minded clubs, Veterans Day in November 2025 is about shining a spotlight on our veterans and getting everyone involved.
Kickoff: Veterans Day Assemblies that Wow
Madison City Schools rev things up with heartfelt Veterans Day assemblies. Local heroes are invited front and center. Students welcome veterans with cheers and gratitude as they share inspiring stories. Younger kids show off painted posters and banners. At Columbia Elementary, the buzz starts early thanks to eS2S, a club dedicated to military families. The club helps kids connect, build friendships, and share experiences that make the day feel more personal. Find out more about Columbia Elementary’s military family support here.
Student Voices Take the Stage
Expect witty, powerful student speeches at Madison’s schools. Brave kids step up to the mic and honor family members who have served. Some read letters to veterans thanking them for their service. Others present history projects showcasing Alabama’s role in national service. The result? An audience full of proud faces, both students and guests.
Purple Star Power at Columbia Elementary
Columbia Elementary brings the energy with its Purple Star Program. It’s not just a badge, it’s a commitment. The club’s mission is simple: support students from military families so everyone feels included. The team, led by counselors Sadie Sturdivant and Hillary Bowen, creates activities where kids can celebrate their achievements, share stories, and learn the true meaning of service. This club understands how big transitions (deployments, moving cities) can impact kids, so they make sure no one gets left out. Reach out to Columbia’s caring team with questions or ideas (see sponsor contacts here).
Huntsville Schools: Flags, Families, and Friendly Faces
Huntsville’s schools know a thing or two about showing gratitude. Here, Veterans Day often means flag ceremonies where the color guard marches in, and everyone stands proud. Schools invite local military groups, veterans’ organizations, and proud family members to take part. Kids present handmade cards and decorated thank-you letters, then swap stories about what they’ve learned by meeting real-life heroes.
Creative Tributes: More Than Just a Ceremony
Kids in Madison and Huntsville get creative with their tributes. Some classes put together photo walls filled with pictures of family members who served. Others organize “adopt-a-veteran” writing campaigns, sending personal notes to local veterans. A few even produce short videos, pairing interviews with veterans and mini history lessons about what Veterans Day is all about.
Why Clubs Like eS2S Matter
Columbia’s eS2S (Elementary Student 2 Student) club is a game-changer for military families. It’s all about camaraderie, kindness, and support. With events, games, and open discussions, the club creates a space where students learn to celebrate each other’s backgrounds. It’s a place where everyone feels like part of the team, especially when Veterans Day arrives. For military families new to Madison, eS2S is a welcoming committee with a serious heart.
Community Connections: Bridging School and Service
Veterans Day in these Alabama cities isn’t just a school event; it’s a community celebration. Schools work closely with local organizations, inviting them to join assemblies, sponsor contests, and host educational sessions. Veterans come in uniform to share their stories, and students get a firsthand look at what service means. The partnership goes both ways. Local groups thank schools for keeping the spirit alive and encourage students to carry lessons of respect and gratitude year-round.
Thanks to schools in Madison and Huntsville, Veterans Day is an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re a student honoring a family member, a veteran enjoying a standing ovation, or a parent helping with decorations, your participation helps make the event meaningful for everyone. Let’s keep growing that spirit of gratitude, not just in November, but all year round.
