Throughout the school year, there are many events worthy of celebration, but perhaps nothing more worthy than Grandparents’ Day.

On Sept. 16, Heritage Christian School pulled out all the stops to honor grandparents. Pastor John “Skip” Vincent from Trinity Church addressed students and their grandparents who were invited as special guests. Also featured at the gathering was praise and worship time, led by the high school worship band and also featuring the middle school students who played hand bells. Students in each grade level then performed a poem, song or recited a bible verse honoring grandparents.

 “We feel like this is a really important day for our students because our outlook at the school is that we as teachers are partnering with the families to educate the students,” said Coordinator Brittany Bailey. “Being able to invite the grandparents into our school and our classrooms shows the kids that we are on their team. It gives the grandparents a chance to see what the kids are learning and where so much of that learning happens.”

 Bailey believes grandparents are often pleasantly surprised to see how much their grandchildren can do – even so early in the school year.

 After the program, groups rotated through stations.

 “We had lunch with our grandparents, classroom time, two photo booths in the gym, games on the playground and we opened up our courtyard for storytelling and questions and answer time,” Bailey said. “We wanted to provide a full day of memories for our students and their grandparents and one of the best parts of the day for many of us was the opportunity to hear stories from the grandparents. After the day’s activities were over, many of the grandparents took their grandchildren home with them for the rest of the day.”

 Also, a memorial table was set up at school so students could honor grandparents who have passed on.

 Bailey said the school alternates every other year between a Grandparents Day celebration and Veterans Day event. She said this year’s event was so successful because of the help received from coworkers and parents.

HCS teacher and parent Lula Malenich feels it is wonderful to honor grandparents.

“They have a lot of wisdom and wit to share – if only we listen,” she said. One of the favorite parts of the day was storytelling in the patio. Grandparents were offered the chance to share anything – some shared songs, stories of their lives and stories about their grandkids.”

 The fourth grade wrote their own lyrics honoring their grandparents and fifth grade performed an original rap.

 “The kids could not wait,” Malenich said. “They were all so anxious for their special grandparents – or grandfriend – to arrive.”

 Nationally, Grandparents Day was observed Sunday, Sept. 11.