Observed: School in session.

March 4: Casimir Pulaski Day: Event Description

Wisconsin public school observance day required by statute. Commemorates the life of the Poland native who was born in 1747. He came to America in 1777, after fighting for Poland’s independence, and joined forces with General George Washington. After saving Washington’s life, Pulaski was made brigadier general of the American Cavalry. Wounded in battle, Pulaski died on October 11, 1779.

Wisconsin Public School Observance Days

Background

Wisconsin’s 21 special observance days are part of state statutes governing general school operations (Wis. Stat. sec. 118.02). Federal law has moved the celebration of many legal holidays to Monday, however, state law recommends that each Wisconsin Special Observance Day be held on the day itself. When an observance day falls on a Saturday or Sunday, it should be observed on the preceding Friday or the following Monday.

Honoring observance days can teach the elements of tradition that preserve U.S. society and foster an awareness of our cultural heritage. Observance days can be part of a rich social studies curriculum that gives these individuals and events proper emphasis, both in the context of Wisconsin and U.S. history and in relation to their effect on or improvement of our political, economic, and social institutions.