| 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.
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