On the occasion of November 11th, the national day of commemoration, the Ministry of National Education requested schools to organize a commemorative ceremony for students from CM1 to terminale. This initiative, established by a circular on July 2nd, aims to keep the duty of remembrance alive for younger generations.
The Minister of National Education, Édouard Geffray, recalls in the preface of an implementation guide that "this moment must allow students to experience and become aware of the unity of our country and what we collectively owe to those who, yesterday, defended its values at the risk and often at the cost of their lives." The Sartiaux-Garnier school, led by Gaëlle BÉGOT, chose to organize this ceremony at the communal war memorial, an initiative supported by the City.
In preparation, CM1 and CM2 students worked in class on the duty of remembrance, World War I, and the role of war memorials, studying the one in the City. This Friday, November 13th at 11 a.m., under favorable sunshine, students gathered in front of the war memorial, decorated for the occasion.
Following an introduction by the school's director, Ms. Olagnier, deputy for childhood and youth, emphasized the importance of transmitting the duty of remembrance. The ceremony continued with the reading of the poem "Liberté" by Paul Éluard by several students, the laying of a wreath, and a minute of silence. The Marseillaise, sung by the children and the choir Les Voix Liées de la Côte, concluded the event.
The City was represented by Ms. Olagnier and Ms. Pugens, first deputy. The municipal police ensured the security of the gathering. The wreath was ordered from the City's new florist. Parents and passers-by also attended the ceremony.
This initiative gave full meaning to the November 11th commemoration, offering students a concrete and meaningful experience close to republican symbols.
