Chartiers Valley Vietnam Symposium gives students real look at history

Chartiers Valley High School continued its annual tradition of respecting those who served the United States and the importance of preserving history through its Vietnam Veterans Symposium on March 21.

The event was facilitated by social studies teachers Frank Brown and Jennifer Heffley, and English teachers Kristen Steen and Kelly Tobias.

It offered firsthand accounts of the Vietnam war and sheds light on the challenges, sacrifices and experiences of those who lived through it.

“This symposium served as an invaluable learning experience, fostering a sense of appreciation and respect for those who have served,” the district said in a statement. “The event reinforced the importance of preserving history through personal narratives and ensured that future generations continue to learn from those who lived it.”

During the symposium, students asked veterans questions about their experiences and service, the impact of the war on their lives and how that shaped their perspectives. Veterans shared stories of their time in the service and the challenges of returning home.

“Their testimonies provided students with a deeper understanding of the complexities of war beyond what they read in textbooks,” the district statement said.

At the event, students Mikayla Diyanni and Charmi Nallanchakravarthula earned the Robert M. Rodrigues Good Citizen Award.

The award celebrates students who demonstrate outstanding character and a commitment to making a positive impact within their school and community, according to the district.

Rodrigues taught history at Chartiers Valley High School from 1974 to 2017.