Indy Standard

First graders at Meredith Nicholson Elementary School spent part of Veterans Day learning about the significance of honoring military personnel. The event was organized by the Indianapolis Colts and Flags of Valor, providing students with an opportunity to engage in a flag-building activity.

Personnel from the NFL team, including cheerleaders and mascot Blue, collaborated with around 65 first graders and some fifth-grade helpers for this event. Principal Lashonda Huff expressed pride in veterans and emphasized the importance of teaching students gratitude and respect. "We are very proud of our veterans, and we know they’re the reason we can do what we do every day. We want to show our appreciation," Huff said. She highlighted how such events help instill values like service, patriotism, and community in young students.

Students used wooden American flag kits provided by Flags of Valor to create keepsake flags as tributes to veterans. Ande Sadtler, Director of Community Impact for the Indianapolis Colts, spoke about connecting with Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) through this celebration. "IPS has the most incredible teachers, amazing administrators, and Huffman is a truly wonderful principal here at Meredith Nicholson," she said. Sadtler noted that students were excited to see Blue and participate in building flags alongside cheerleaders.

The project was more than an art activity; it was a tribute to veterans' sacrifices while fostering community pride. Each flag made by the students served as a token of gratitude for those who have served the country.