When third grader Lyla Klapp saw her hand-drawn flag rise high above Bates Elementary on June 5, it marked a moment of pride, symbolism, and celebration. Lyla, a student in Mrs. Michling’s class, was named the winner of the school’s annual Flag Day contest. Her original flag design - accompanied by an essay explaining how it represents the spirit and community of Bates - will fly outside the school for an entire year.
Flag Day, officially celebrated on June 14, typically falls during summer break. To honor the holiday in a meaningful way, Bates Elementary hosts its own early celebration before school lets out. The highlight: raising a new student-designed Bates Elementary flag that reflects the school’s values through creativity and patriotism.
This tradition is the result of a collaborative project led by third grade teachers Tara Bacha, Daniele Michling, and Celine Farner, along with Principal Cherie Godfrey and District Literacy Coach Kathy Gray. The event is proudly supported by the Bates PTO and the Monguagon Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).
The project begins in the classroom, where students explore the history and symbolism of the American flag. This year’s lessons were brought to life with a special visit from historical reenactor Brenda Tomblin, portraying Mary Pickersgill (the woman who helped sew the original Star-Spangled Banner) and a colonial friend. They read Our American Flag by Mary Firestone, answered questions, and provided students with keepsake flags.
After immersing themselves in history and symbolism, students put their learning into action by designing their own flags to represent Bates. Each design was accompanied by a thoughtful essay that explained their choice of colors, symbols, and themes. One winner was chosen from each third-grade classroom.
Mrs. Michling stated “It was rewarding to see students engaged in their creations, all the while bursting with pride for their school.”
Lyla’s flag was selected to be made into a full-size version and raised at the school’s flagpole ceremony. Meanwhile, Skylar LeBlanc, last year’s winner, received her now-retired flag as a treasured memento.
Bates Elementary’s Flag Day celebration is more than a lesson in patriotism - it’s a lasting tribute to student voice, creativity, and pride in their school community.
