Gladbrook American Legion Jr. Auxiliary member Kinley Miller, right, helps raise the flag on the first day of school at GMG Elementary in Green Mountain this past Monday, Aug. 24. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE PAUSTIAN

GREEN MOUNTAIN – The first day of the 2026-27 school year for GMG Elementary was this past Monday, Aug. 24. The morning included the annual flag raising ceremony provided by the Gladbrook American Legion & Auxiliary.

Principal Stacie Busch welcomed everyone and introduced Unit Americanism Chr. Lisa Reinhard who started the program with, “Good morning, everyone! Welcome back to a brand new school year. This year is extra special. America is 250 years old! That’s a big, historic birthday we’re celebrating together.”

Reinhard continued, “Did any of you do something special to celebrate America’s birthday? I was really excited because I graduated in 1976 … so I had my 50th class reunion. I celebrated the Fourth of July in Philadelphia. It was there in 1776 that our leaders signed the Declaration of Independence making the United States of America a new country. That was the start of an incredible journey.”

“Since then, our country has grown, invented amazing things, and welcomed people who all help write its story. And now, it’s your turn. You might be thinking, ‘But I’m just a kid. What can I do?’ Well, actually, you can do a lot! Every time you are kind to someone who feels left out, every time you tell the truth, every time you help clean up or work hard in class, you’re shaping the future of this country. America’s story isn’t just about politicians, professional athletes, or adults. It’s about everyone, including you. This year, I challenge you to learn something new every day, be kind every day, and do your best every day. If we all do that, we’ll make this school wonderful and help write the next chapter of America’s story.”

“Happy 250th birthday to America – and to all of you, have a fantastic school year!”

Miller, right, pictured with Unit Americanism Chr. Lisa Reinhard. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE PAUSTIAN

Jr. Auxiliary member Kinley Miller then presented a new American flag to the school and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Kinley, with the help of a custodian, raised the flag as the National Anthem was sung, while the Gladbrook American Legion color guard (Jim Gethmann, Jim Quisberg, Ron Busch, Dennis Haack) stood at attention.

Following the ceremony, the excited students headed to class to continue their first day of the new school year.

GMG Elementary students gather for the annual first day of school flag raising ceremony this past Monday, Aug. 24, in Green Mountain. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE PAUSTIAN