Anna Maria Elementary students, parents and community members gathered on Sept. 21 to celebrate International Peace Day at the Holmes Beach school, 4700 Gulf Drive.
The 2023-24 theme encouraged peace and kindness at school and at home.
The Manatee High School Drumline opened the event with a marching performance that was followed by a procession of AME students carrying international flags in an expression of world peace.
AME principal Mike Masiello addressed attendees, promoting the importance of a global way to celebrate peace and reminding them of common bonds.
Prekindergarten, kindergarten and first-grade students sang the first song of the celebration, which was about loving one another.
Parents and community members swayed to the music and enjoyed the performances organized by art and drama teacher Beth McIntosh.
Rotary Club of Anna Maria Island president Kathy Rylander was in attendance to support the school ceremony and gave a speech about staying strong and choosing peace.
