Henrico County Public Schools seniors in the Class of 2025 will graduate this month before pursuing higher education, joining the workforce or serving their country — all part of the school division’s mission to prepare every student to be enrolled, enlisted and/or employed. In recognition of those planning to enlist in the military, attend a service academy or participate in a college ROTC program, HCPS will hold its Military Commitment Celebration at 6 p.m. May 14 at the ACE Center at Hermitage.
The event will feature a formal dinner complete with a color guard and guest speaker, followed by a ceremonial oath. More than 150 guests are expected to attend, including the students, their families, school staff, HCPS leadership and community leaders.
This is the second year that this event is being held, with the first one garnering much success, including recognition by the National Association of Counties and its Virginia counterpart.
“Henrico County Public Schools is proud to continue this tradition of honoring military commitments, showcasing the community's unwavering support for its future leaders,” said Amy Cashwell, HCPS superintendent.
J.R. Tucker High School Marine Corps JROTC students present the colors before the school's annual Veterans Day ceremony in November 2024. (Credit: Henrico County Public Schools).
Similar to the popular CTE signing day program that was held recently, in which graduates trained in technical programs sign contracts to work for local companies in various trade industries, this program fills the void of recognition for the many HCPS graduates who commit to serving our country after leaving high school.
The event is possible through the collaboration of HCPS school counselors, JROTC instructors, students from the ACE Center at Hermitage culinary and hospitality programs, and the HCPS Department of Workforce and Career Development.
HCPS Military Commitment Celebration
When: Wednesday, May 14 at 6 p.m.
Where: ACE Center at Hermitage, 8350 Hermitage High Blvd.
Who: This event is not open to the public, but members of the media are invited to attend. If you wish to attend, please contact Daniel Stooks, CTE Educational Specialist, at djfstooks@henrico.k12.va.us, and Ken Blackstone, Assistant Director of Communications, at kjblackstone@henrico.k12.va.us
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