Remember All of the Veterans – By Every Definition

by LaToya Fernandez, Teacher, Discovery Prep

Veterans Day is a time where we remember those who sacrifice their lives for the safety and livelihood of our country. It is also a time I like to reflect on everyone who dedicates great time and effort to help make daily life in this country peaceful and prosperous, members of the military included. I have always had a deep respect for veterans – in every definition of the word.

As a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, I am grateful for and humbled by others who have served in the military – some even serving through multiple wars, for ten or twenty years of their lives. They sacrifice their time and safety while far away from their families, friends and daily freedoms that most take for granted. Their great sacrifice makes our livelihood possible.

The word ‘veteran’ also reminds me of the many people throughout the world who are experts in their field. They use their vast knowledge and experience to serve communities and help make life better for others. At Rocketship, I’m surrounded and supported by many education veterans. Education veterans help make all other professions possible, helping students access knowledge and teaching them to turn and use their training to uplift the world around them.

In schools and educational networks in every community, educators make great sacrifices and work long, hard hours in their commitment to guiding our future leaders and game changers. Education is the key that unlocks the potential of every individual, but in many places throughout the U.S., a quality education is not accessible to all. Through organizations like Teach for America and City Year, many dedicate their lives to educating children in underserved communities, battling unjust opportunity gaps that plague our world. These teachers bravely embrace the daily responsibilities and intense time commitment necessary to eliminate the achievement gap and provide resources and quality instruction. They are the foot soldiers who advocate for families and education reform every day.

As we remember and show our thanks to military personnel, may Veterans Day remind us to be thankful for everyone fighting hard battles every day to create a better world. Whether they are fighting in combat boots overseas or in your neighborhood classroom, in hospitals or courtrooms, let us always be thankful of those who fight for justice, equality and safety. Let us remember military veterans, firefighters, policemen and policewomen, doctors, lawyers, educators, parents and neighbors who sacrifice to ensure the progress of our communities and harness hope for the future.

Share your Veterans Day thank yous with us ➟ @RocketshipEd

LaToya started her career at Rocketship as a member of the support staff team. She transitioned to an enrichment coordinator then a Rocketship tutor (ILS) before becoming a fifth grade humanities teacher at Discovery Prep. LaToya graduated from Newbury College in Boston where she studied Media Writing and English.

Published on November 9, 2015