Purple Up at Humphreys West Elementary
CAMP HUMPHREYS, KOREA – The uplifting sounds of the 8th Army Band greeted students as they arrived at Humphreys West Elementary on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. Teachers and parents cheered them on as they walked up the red carpet, a symbol of our school's recognition and celebration of our military-connected students. This month-long celebration is a testament to our strong sense of community and support for students.
The first week of April was a colorful celebration, with students donning various spirit wear to honor our country, their hometowns, military connections, and their family cultures. The excitement peaked on Friday when the entire school dressed in purple to celebrate MOMC, and a picture of the whole school together captured the moment. These events are about celebration and fostering a sense of fun and excitement in our school community.
“I am a mother of military children, and I know firsthand the struggles and triumphs these students encounter as they PCS with families and experience deployments,” said Moon Cribbs, reading teacher. “I am honored to support our community of learners, and I am proud to wear purple to celebrate our students.”
The second week was rocked in by the 8th Army Band greeting students. Mr. Hwang, who organized the MOMC events, prepared the walkway with balloons, arches, and a red carpet for every child to walk down.
“Every student has their own history and journey, and we want to celebrate them,” said Courtney Burks, Special Education teacher. “It’s important to acknowledge each student and realize that as we come together, we are stronger.”
The third week coincides with our PTSO book fair, where our PTSO has ensured that every child will be able to pick out a book to keep. Reading is valued at HWES and ensuring that every child can participate is greatly appreciated by faculty, staff, and families.
In addition, a motivational speaker will visit each class during their lunch, encouraging them to do their best and acknowledging the uniqueness of their lives and the resiliency military-connected students embrace. These motivational speakers included Ms. Harrison, HWES Sure Start teacher; Ms. Soto, HWES Kindergarten teacher; Dr. Sullivan, HWES Assistant Principal; Mr. Romero, HWES Principal; and Dr. Sherwood, Pacific West District Superintendent.
The month concludes with a Family Bingo Night at HWES. Families will come together to celebrate their unique journeys in their military lives with Bingo, prizes, and good fellowship. HWES extends beyond the school day as a part of the community of Camp Humphreys, and we strive to bring families into the building to celebrate their children.
April is designated as the Month of the Military Child. While HWES is happy to go purple to celebrate April, we honor and support our military-connected students and their families year-round.
“I am so honored to support the education of our military children,” said HWES Principal Edgar Romero. “They are unique students who deserve to be celebrated all year long, but I am thankful for how the specific spotlight of April’s Month of the Military Child highlights the strengths and challenges unique to military children.”
