Bountiful Elementary marked Purple Up Day with the milestone of official recognition as a Purple Star school. The honor recognizes the efforts of the school to maintain a supportive and welcoming environment for military-connected students and families.
Purple Up Day Celebration
During a school assembly, staff and students wore purple to participate in a program focused on connection, service, and courage.
Award Presentation Ceremony
Erin Webster of Davis School District presented the Purple Star recognition to Bountiful Elementary during the assembly.
One Book, One Bountiful Program
The celebration was integrated with the school's One Book, One Bountiful reading program, which featured the novel Duke by Kirby Larson. The book was selected for its themes of loyalty, bravery, and resilience. As part of the program, students viewed a video message from author Kirby Larson.
Benefits of Shared Reading
Librarian Tara Berge stated that selecting a shared book helps build a community of readers by connecting students and teachers through characters and ideas. She noted that Duke was chosen because it teaches about doing hard things and celebrates students with family members in the military.
Community Military Member Presentations
The assembly included presentations from community members with military ties. Clifton I. Johnson, a Bountiful Elementary parent and active military member, spoke to students about his personal experiences and the meaning of military service.
Military Working Dog Demonstration
Carlos Kubischta, a former U.S. Air Force Security Forces Military Working Dog Trainer who served eight years on active duty, provided a demonstration featuring one of his canines. The demonstration served as a real-world connection to the themes of service and loyalty presented in the school's chosen book.
The Purple Up Day event served as both a spirit day and a celebration of the school community's commitment to military families. The school expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the event and acknowledged the service and strength of military families within the Bobcat community.
