At Margaret K. Lewis School, students were given a powerful and deeply meaningful opportunity to better understand the experiences of military-connected families through a thoughtfully designed Mock Deployment event. Organized by ESE teacher Kristi Sundstrom, the experience brought lessons of empathy, resilience, and service to life in a way that resonated with every student who participated.
From start to finish, every detail of the event was carefully planned to ensure it was accessible, engaging, and impactful for MKL’s diverse population of students, ranging from Pre-K through age 22. As a proud Purple Star School, MKL remained committed to supporting military families, and this event served as a powerful extension of that mission. Students rotated through a series of hands-on stations that mirrored the real-life stages of deployment, beginning with receiving orders and participating in a mission briefing, where they learned what it means to serve.
The experience continued as students packed “go bags,” practicing organization and following directions, before walking through a symbolic deployment line that reflected the emotional and physical journey service members take before leaving home. One of the most memorable moments came when students boarded transportation for a short ride, simulating departure. At their “deployed location,” they were greeted with a care package from home from Tyndall Air Force Base service members, adding an authentic and heartfelt touch to the experience.
The event concluded with a joyful “Welcome Home” celebration, reinforcing the importance of community, connection, and support. Throughout the day, students engaged in meaningful sensory and experiential learning, with adaptations in place to meet their individual needs. In a particularly thoughtful gesture, elements such as dog tags and passports were created in braille, ensuring that every student could fully participate in the experience.
The Mock Deployment at Margaret K. Lewis School stood out as a truly special event—one where every detail was intentional, every moment meaningful, and every student included. Through this immersive experience, students not only learned about the realities of military life but also developed a deeper appreciation for the strength and sacrifice of the families who serve.
