-Svetla Tomanova

Since 1986, April has been recognized by the Department of Defense as the Month of the Military Child. “The Art of Being a Military Child” event is just one example of the many ways that Virginia Beach City Public Schools and community partners come together to recognize and support military children during the Month of the Military Child.

In 2012, the inaugural year of the VBCPS celebration, there were only 200 entries. This year, “The Art of Being a Military Child” contest inspired more than 700 artworks from K-12 students. Many of the creations were put on display at Lynnhaven Mall’s center court.

“The Month of the Military Child holds special meaning for us,” Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence said. “We have approximately 12,000 military-connected students in our school division whose families support some of the most important military functions in the world.”

This contest was an opportunity for children to express their artistic interpretations of what it means to be a military dependent and the life lessons they have learned. Their dreams and wishes, patriotism, family and school were depicted in the masterpieces. They have used their talents to inspire others and raise awareness about the unique challenges facing military children such as the artwork by Addyson P., Great Neck Middle School, as shown in the picture. As for Arabella D., Salem High School, her artwork expresses her friend’s happiness when seeing her mom after two years of deployment.

The exhibit opened with a reception in Lynnhaven Mall’s center court, where the Princess Anne High School Band provided entertainment. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including First Lady of Virginia Suzanne Youngkin and Virginia Secretary of Veteran and Defense Affairs Craig Crenshaw, as well as senior leaders from each branch of the military. Others on hand for the unveiling were families and friends of the contestants as well as visitors to the mall.

“One famous artist, Henri Matisse, said creativity takes courage,” Youngkin said in her opening remarks. “And what I saw was a remarkable display of courage. Congratulations to all of our young artists who poured their hearts and souls into bringing to life emotions that will impact every person in this community and the Commonwealth.”

One of the highlights of the event came from the Cox High School freshman Kaylee Schulz, who recited a poignant poem she penned: “I am a military child.”

During the ceremony, the emcee, Kurt Williams, anchor with WTKR, recognized the 16 award winners. As the students hurried to the podium, their artworks were spotlighted on the large screen.

The division hosted the contest and annual art show in partnership with Lynnhaven Mall and military school liaison officers at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story and Naval Air Station Oceana-Dam Neck.

The exhibit will remain open throughout April. Let’s continue to celebrate military children and their families and most importantly celebrate life together.