Zukeran Kicks Off Month of the Military Child with Music and Celebration
ZUKERAN, Okinawa — Zukeran Elementary School proudly launched its Month of the Military Child celebration with an energetic and memorable opening assembly on April 6, welcoming students back from Spring Break in true celebratory style.
Students from pre-Kindergarten through fifth grade gathered for the first special event of the month, joined by staff and guests, as the III Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF) Party Band set the tone for April’s festivities. The brass jazz ensemble delivered a lively performance featuring contemporary, kid‑friendly favorites that had students clapping along and smiling from start to finish. The band’s engaging presence created an atmosphere of excitement and appreciation that resonated with both students and adults alike. Students were also treated to a heart-felt video presentation produced by Zukeran's own Student Leadership Club, reminding students how their steadfast resilience, kindness, and support of their families makes them so special.
Month of the Military Child, observed each April across Department of War Education Activity (DoWEA) schools worldwide, honors the resilience, strength, and contributions of military-connected students. Zukeran Elementary serves a diverse community of military families, and this month provides a meaningful opportunity to recognize students for their adaptability, courage, and positive impact on the school community.
“The opening assembly was a wonderful way to welcome our students back and kick off a very important month,” said Jenny Swan, Zukeran's Multilanguage Learner Program Teacher and co-organizer of the month's events. Jessie Saunders, Zukeran's music teacher and fellow co-organizer agreed, adding “Music has a unique way of bringing people together, and the III MEF Party Band helped us start April with excitement, pride, and a sense of community.”
Throughout the month, Zukeran Elementary will host a variety of engaging activities designed for all grade levels, including schoolwide events that celebrate unity and service and a spirit week during which students and staff will be wearing one-of-kind, student-designed Month of the Military Child t-shirts provided by the parent-teacher organization—symbolizing the special role military children play in supporting our military.
The Month of the Military Child opening assembly set a strong, positive tone for the weeks ahead, reflecting Zukeran Elementary’s commitment to supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. With music, smiles, and shared celebration, the school community came together to honor those who serve—and the children who serve alongside them every day.
