Stepping Stone School hosts annual patriotic program, parade
Decked out in red, white and blue, the students at Stepping Stone School eagerly gathered for their annual Fourth of July program, where each little patriot sparkled with excitement under the summer sun.
"I want the children to know that the Fourth of July is more than just hamburgers and hot dogs," said Camille Brown, owner and executive director of Stepping Stone School. "They are our next generation and they need to know and remember what this country is all about."
Kathy Matthews, 2024 Ms. Texas Senior Classic, delivered a stirring rendition of the National Anthem, while the local Boy Scouts and Marine Corps presented the colors. The students proudly led the Pledge of Allegiance. During the program, some of the students portrayed iconic figures like Paul Revere, Lady Liberty, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Uncle Sam.
"The kids were so patient and great, even though it was hot," said JoAnne McMeans, children's patriotic parade coordinator. "The program was specifically designed to make sure the kids were a part of it and they did such a wonderful job."
Jordan Sanders, who has a 5-year-old attending Stepping Stone School for the summer, appreciates the foundation that the school provides for the students.
"They have a great program," Sanders said. "The staff is very caring, very considerate. It seems like they instill great morals and have great education."
Established in 1968 by Brown, the Stepping Stone School is one of the oldest early childhood education programs in East Texas.
"I love what I do," Brown said. "It's such a joy to wake up in the morning, knowing that you get to spend another day with the kids, plan and take them on field trips, visit the classrooms and give them all hugs. I do not want to retire. This is what I was called to do and ... I love it."
During the program, Brown received the Moran Minuteman award, an initiative by U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran that honors individuals dedicated to making a difference in their communities, in recognition of her 56 years of teaching.
"Today was so special ... getting to honor these veterans and local heroes, and getting the children excited about it," Brown said. "But I had no idea I would be honored. I'm so grateful for it ... such a wonderful thing to be recognized for doing what I love."
The recognition was partly attributed to McMeans, who found it challenging to maintain secrecy, especially while attempting to provide additional information for the nomination.
"Camille is so fun, outgoing and a wonderful educator," McMeans said. "But she is very tight lipped about her services ... so, Monica (Lary) and I had to play secret agents to get all that for the application. The Lord inspired me to nominate her ... and I'm so glad she was awarded."
Jalam Lewis, senior advisor to Moran, presented the certificate to Brown during the program.
The Stepping Stone School students all sang 'Happy Birthday' to Carl Ray Rollins, a World War II veteran who celebrated his 100th birthday. Leroy Mallory, who was stationed in Fort Hood and served in Korea, was also recognized for his services.
"We all owe these veterans a big 'thank you' for not only their services to the country but their service to the communities," McMeans said. "We at the Ms. Texas Senior Classic feel very strongly about patriotism. We know there are so many veterans who are in need of medical care, as well as those living on the streets ... we want them to know that they are loved and prayed for."
Parents and supporters appreciated the school's efforts to foster patriotism and educate students about traditions and values in anticipation of Independence Day.
"It was nice to see them really emphasizing the patriotism that it is that we hope to instill in the next generation, I think it's something that seems to be lost," Sanders said. "I think it's one of those things that instilling that at an early age will establish a foundation for this generation as it is that they grow up to be."
