- Killeen ISD
- Community Relations
Clarke Elementary Sweets for Soldiers

Two extremely important traditions at a Killeen ISD school on Fort Cavazos came together Monday in a motor pool at the center of the installation.
Clarke Elementary School counselors Savali Siaosi and Carolyn Daniels stood alongside the leadership of the 57th Expeditionary Signal Battalion-Enhanced during the morning formation to start the day.
The two school counselors and Sgt. Jacob Kline, their contact with the brigade, explained to the gathered soldiers the special friendship between the unit and the school through the Fort Cavazos adopt-a-school program.
For 14 years now, staff members at the elementary school have provided baked goods and delivered them to the soldiers as a sweet-tasting gesture to extend their gratitude leading into the Christmas holiday.
“We want to show appreciation for the time and energy and love our soldiers show to our kids,” said Siaosi. “They do everything we need.”
For many years, soldiers have participated in a weekly running club at the school. They also help at a family craft night, on the first day of school, read to students, conduct a school supply drive and attend site-based decision-making meetings.
“Our students love the soldiers,” said Daniels. “They come for our holiday meals, too. Our students are very enthusiastic to see them.”
Practically 100 percent of the school’s enrollment is military-connected, so the relationship is a natural one.
Appreciation goes both ways.
“What’s special about this relationship is it gives a chance for soldiers to give back to our community and it gives a chance for students to talk to soldiers, and it’s fun for everyone,” said Kline, one of the points of contact between the school and the unit.
The Let’s Move Club, he said, is an important ongoing connection with soldiers walking alongside students to promote fitness and talk with one another.
“The little kids love to see the soldiers. They smile ear to ear, and they love to hang out with the soldiers. They always seem to have a good time,” he said. “The students laugh and ask us if we know their mom or dad. It’s good comradery and builds cohesion in the community.”
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