The Old Glory Project
Let's keep the tradition going
by Duane Crawford
April 14, 2008
For the past two years, our 5th grade students have enjoyed
learning from the Old Glory Project. Under the direction of
Elementary School Counselor Diane McClain, and with the earnest
assistance of the 5th grade teachers and some parents, the students
have benefited from the project by developing esteemed character
traits and improving writing skills. As part of the PCR-1 Schools’
Character Education Program, the students also learned what Old
Glory stands for.
The first year’s project was funded by donations from local
businesses: Unionville Lions Club, Character Education Committee,
parents, and private citizens. Last year’s funds were provided by a
mini-grant, which Mrs. McClain had diligently applied for through
the Missouri Department of Education. No grant is possible this
next year. If we want to continue this worthwhile project, funding
must come from community contributions.
By Veterans Day last year, each student had selected, refined and
written the chosen character trait on the stripes of the flag and
framing was completed. During the all-school assembly to honor
local veterans, the students proudly presented their red, white,
and blue masterpieces to their parents. Lower classes watched the
impressive presentation and hoped they’d eventually have the same
opportunity.
As a result of having the Old Glory Project for two years,
approximately 140 framed flags are on display in homes, offices and
businesses throughout Putnam County. Two are exhibited in the
Unionville Republican’s office. Someday, those students will view
their handiwork and remember that the project was about character
building.
Because the 5th grade students’ next giant step in education is
Middle School, they are responsible for the Elementary School’s
raising, lowering and folding of the flag each day. Soon after
school begins each year, veterans volunteer to teach 5th graders
how to perform their patriotic duties and how to respect our flag.
The students take their duties seriously.
The total cost of the Old Glory Project is about $1,400. If the
total number of 5th grade students is 65, the cost for each
completed flag is about $22. Some parents can bear the cost for
their child, but many can not.
Our Old Glory Project has proved to be an excellent Character
Education learning tool. Many of us in the community can help. A
total of $428 is left from the first year’s project. Approximately
$1,000 more is needed to continue the project next year. There will
likely be a fund-raiser to help defray the cost, but many of us in
the community can help keep the tradition alive.
Mrs. McClain will gladly speak with any organization that desires
more information. Her telephone number is 947-3361 (Ext.329).
Donations will be accepted by her at the Elementary School or at
the Superintendent’s Office. Donations can also be mailed to :
Putnam County R-1 Schools, 801 South 20th Street, Unionville, MO
63565. Checks should be made out to: Old Glory Project.
Let’s hope our community can continue this worthwhile patriotic
tradition. It is a unique opportunity to teach Character Education
to those who will grow to be our future community, state, and
national leaders. The price is small; the benefits are great.
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