White Sands Schools celebrated the 25th anniversary of the First Day of School Holiday July 18 at the White Sands Missile Range Middle School and Teen Center with a celebration for children, parents and teachers. (Photo by Jose Salazar)

First Day of School Holiday celebrates 25th Anniversary

White Sands Schools celebrated the 25th anniversary of the First Day of School Holiday July 18 at the White Sands Missile Range Middle School and Teen Center with a celebration for children, parents and teachers.

White Sands School Principal James Dickerson welcomed students and parents to the event.

“We are committed to providing a safe environment for learning,” Dickerson said. “Thank you for trusting us with your children. It’s a great day to be a Sun Chief.”

WSMR Garrison Commander Col. Don Mozer welcomed everyone to the event. He encouraged students to embrace learning, to ask questions and not be afraid to take on challenges.

Ignacio Ruiz, Superintendent of the Las Cruces Public Schools, recognized the White Sands School principal and staff for their hard work and dedication and thanked the WSMR leadership and community for their support. “They ensure our students are successful.”

WSMR Commander Brig. Gen. George C. Turner, WSMR Command Sgt. Maj. Michael S. Cordery, and Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Jamal N. Latore were also in attendance.

The FDOSH was the idea of Sue Flohr, an educator and wife of former WSMR Commander Brig. Gen. Steven W. Flohr, to help parents and students prepare for the new school year after a long summer break.

The WSMR community kicked off the 2024/2025 school year with water slide fun, food, free school supplies and giveaways.

They also got a chance to visit several booths to get information about the Child and Youth Services before and after school programs, and several community support organizations.

Parent, Sandra Saldivar-Valles, who has three student’s starting school at White Sands Schools next week, said the event is a great opportunity for students and members of the community to come out and see what is available at WSMR.

 Lt. Westin Daniel, who is new to the community, said he can’t wait for his daughter to start school at WSMR next week.“I think the event is amazing. I’m sure it took a lot of organizations to put this together. This is great.”

By Miriam Rodriguez

WSMR Public Affairs