Purple Up! Spirit Week
Fostering a partnership between the military and the educational community
The Month of the Military Child presents a wonderful opportunity to honor our military students, and Andre’ Lucas Spirit Week of April 20 through 24 was particularly special. This week was filled with vibrant, community-supported events designed to celebrate our students and create lasting memories. Under the leadership of Shelly Stine, guidance counselor, and Heather Booi, PTO President, along with numerous dedicated volunteers, the week was a blend of excitement, learning, and appreciation for our military families.
Heather Booi and PTO volunteers successfully organized Andre’ Lucas Elementary School's inaugural Military Field Day to honor the Month of the Military Child. This event provided students with a unique opportunity to explore various military roles and understand the commitment involved in serving. Ms. Booi expressed gratitude for the invaluable support from the participating units, which made this hands-on experience memorable for the students. To commemorate their participation, each student received a challenge coin, thanks to the generous contribution from Stand By Collective.
The soldiers also expressed that their time here was not only enjoyable but also a valuable chance to impart their knowledge and experiences to the students. They were able to share insights about their roles in the army and provide a glimpse into their daily lives. Sgt. Diaz reflected on his own parenting, noting that this experience allowed him to consider the lessons he could pass on to his child in the future. SGT Sanchez enjoyed interacting with the children, teaching them face painting, guiding them around the Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV), and building community connections. CPT Butler observed the children's joy as they donned surgical gloves to care for stuffed animals, finding their relatable frustrations amusing, reminiscent of adult experiences.
One educational station highlighted oral hygiene, where kids learned proper brushing techniques using a stuffed animal and got to pick their favorite color toothbrush, making the lesson both enjoyable and memorable. The "Frag Out" activity, featuring water balloons, was a standout moment of the event, giving students an exciting chance to hit targets while rallying their friends for support. At the same time, the CPR station, equipped with manikins, provided a safe space for students to practice essential skills like chest compressions and rescue breaths.
The week-long celebrations for Month of the Military Child Spirit Week culminated in a lively PURPLE UP Picnic, where parents, students, and staff gathered on the lawn to enjoy the upbeat music of the 101st AIRBORNE BAND. This cherished tradition, started by guidance counselor Ms. Shelly Stine, strengthened community bonds as we came together to honor our students and celebrate their unique contributions.
A very special "THANK YOU" to all the Units that supported this event:
1-502 IN “First Strike”
Fort Campbell Law Enforcement Company
Fort Campbell Veterinary Services
Fort Campbell Dental Team
6-101 AVN REGT “Shadow,” 101st ABN DIV (AASLT)
526 Light Support Battalion
