Throughout our nation's history problems have created pressing needs and opportunities for patriotism. This is one of those times. A generation of elementary school children is now being exposed to widespread neglect of instruction in American history. Along with this scarcity of knowledge, goes an absence of patriotism and an attitude of indifference toward the values which have made our country a great republic.
The NSCDA has available now an opportunity which is outstandingly patriotic in character, and imparts a healthy knowledge of the nation's history and flag. It uses electronic media which children understand and enjoy. It is interesting, featuring professional presentations and involves classroom teachers, or librarians monitoring work on computers at school.
An exciting aspect of this project is that it does not matter how large or small the local Dames group is which takes on this opportunity. It could be done by each state Society or the smallest Town Committee.
The National Flag Foundation TM has produced a project called Young Patriots. It consists of a video series of three 20 minutes programs with a teacher's guide. Important lessons are taught on the history of the United States flag, the pledge of Allegiance, and United States flag etiquette. The production is well done and appealing to children. In addition, an educational interactive web site is provided which consists of three main sections, complete with teacher's guide. Each of the main sections contains a number of subsections which include patriotic games and assignments to complete for the teacher, as well as explorations into the thoughts and activities of famous Americans and peers.
The National Flag Foundation TM provides the web site access for a year on all the computers in one school. In addition, the Foundation supplies a year long online subscription to their newsletter, and a one year subscription to Flag Facts. The cost is $150 per enrolled school. For information contact:
National Flag Foundation www.americanflags.org
1275 Bedford Avenue Phone: 800.615.1776
Pittsburgh, PA 15219-3630
Identify yourself as a Colonial Dame when requesting information. Or contact our NSCDA Flag Consultant.
How do we move this project into action? The best beginnings start with a personal contact with an interested school teacher or social studies teacher, librarian, or even school principal. (An alternate approach is to sponsor a school or schools selected by the Foundation in the geographic area you choose.)
Using the Young Patriots brochure, your mission is to meet with the teacher and explain this exciting and useful gift to their class. The teacher will become as enthusiastic as you are, and be eager to use this powerful resource. With the teacher's interest secured, your Dames group submits the Sponsor Form with payment.
