Honoring Our Local Heroes: Citrus County Schools Celebrates Veterans in the Classroom

On Monday, March 2, I had the privilege of joining my fellow School Board members and Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert at the annual Veterans in the Classroom Appreciation Luncheon. This special event celebrates the remarkable contributions of local veterans who generously volunteer their time to share their experiences with students across Citrus County.

The Veterans in the Classroom (VITC) program, launched in 1993, has connected former military servicemen and women with students for decades. Its goal is simple yet profound: to provide students with firsthand accounts of service, sacrifice, and the lessons learned in the military. Since its inception, VITC has reached more than 250,000 students, making it one of the nation’s most successful programs of its kind.

This year, roughly half of all students in Citrus County, spanning elementary, middle, and high schools, have had the opportunity to hear directly from one of the 65 active veterans in the program. These veterans bring history to life, sharing how their service shaped their character, values, and worldview. The impact is tangible, students gain a deeper understanding of courage, resilience, and commitment through stories that cannot be captured in a textbook.

The appreciation luncheon itself was a moving and memorable occasion. Each of the three high schools’ JROTC units played an important role in honoring our veterans, beginning with a presentation of colors by the Citrus High School JROTC Honor Guard. The CHS Chamber Choir added an uplifting touch with their beautiful performances, creating a sense of reverence and celebration. Veterans were treated to a delicious meal prepared by culinary students from Withlacoochee Technical College, highlighting not only the district’s commitment to hands-on education but also the talent of its students. I had the honor of offering the invocation, setting a reflective tone for the event.

The most meaningful moments, however, came when the veterans took the stage to introduce themselves and share reflections on their military service and experiences in the VITC program. Each story reminded us of the courage and dedication of men and women who have served our country. Kathy Nielsen, Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy (retired), shared a particularly moving account. She spoke about the joy she finds in discussing her love of country, her pride in being a trailblazer for women in the Navy, and the unique bond she shares with students through the program. She shared a treasured photograph of herself with her father, a former officer who swore her in as a naval officer, a moment filled with pride, emotion, and legacy. Her story, like many others shared that day, reflected both the personal sacrifices of our veterans and the deep satisfaction they gain from inspiring students.

Participation in the Veterans in the Classroom program is rewarding for both veterans and students alike. Veterans have the opportunity to share their personal journeys, the challenges they faced, and the values they learned, including courage, discipline, leadership, and perseverance. For students, these interactions offer an unforgettable, face-to-face learning experience that brings history to life. Listening to accounts of bravery, dedication, and resilience helps students understand the profound impact of military service on our nation and inspires them to apply these lessons in their own lives.

Citrus County Schools has long demonstrated a deep commitment to honoring veterans. The district holds the distinction of being the first Purple Heart School District in the nation, recognizing the sacrifices of military families. Additionally, every school in the district has been designated as Florida Purple Star Schools, setting a high standard for honoring military personnel and fostering a culture of respect, gratitude, and support for service members. These honors reinforce the district’s dedication to keeping the legacy of veterans alive for students.

The success of the VITC program is made possible through the leadership and coordination of Dr. Al Balk, Coordinator of Academic Programs and Instructional Materials for Citrus County Schools, in collaboration with Dr. Mark Bodenheim and the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). Their dedication ensures the program continues to thrive, connecting students with veterans year after year.

For veterans interested in joining the 2026–2027 Veterans in the Classroom program, opportunities abound. Veterans can contact Dr. Balk at (352) 726-1931 ext. 2490 or email balka@citrusschools.org. They can also connect with the Citrus County MOAA chapter through moaafl.org/chapters/citruscounty. By participating, veterans have the chance to leave a lasting impact on students, sharing wisdom, life lessons, and the values instilled through military service.

The Veterans in the Classroom program is more than a series of classroom visits. It is a living legacy, bridging the gap between history and experience. It ensures students understand the profound impact of service and the enduring contributions of those who have worn the uniform. Through their generosity, wisdom, and courage, our veterans continue to shape the minds and hearts of students, leaving an indelible mark on our schools, community, and nation.

Monday’s luncheon was a heartfelt tribute to these remarkable individuals. Their service, both in uniform and in the classroom, enriches the lives of our students and strengthens our community. We extend our deepest gratitude to the veterans of Citrus County for their dedication, their stories, and their commitment to shaping the next generation.

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