Wildwood Middle School Class Gives Unique Flag to Veterans

WILDWOOD ─  Veterans Day is over, yet for the sixth grade social studies class at Wildwood Middle School, this past Veterans Day will very likely live in their minds for some time.
With the holidays approaching, the class, taught by Regina Kaufmann, took the time to give back, to pause and reflect on what Veterans Day truly means. The students, born in a post Sept. 11, 2001 world, gave back to local veterans and, as described by Kaufmann, are “hungry to learn.”
Kaufmann said the class decided to make the flag one day earlier. “We watched little videos about Armistice Day,” said Kaufmann, explaining how her students learned about the dark days of World War I. The students also learned that not only are service men and women affected by war, but also their families.
Kaufmann wanted the class to be able to “relate” to Veterans Day in a personal way. Several students, according to her, shared stories of family members serving in the military.
“I wanted them to learn respect and honor them (veterans),” Kaufmann continued. “I’m very patriotic.” Kaufmann took it upon herself to pass her patriotic spirit to the next generation.
The flag, a patchwork quilt of ideas and words, was designed to show appreciation, including written qualities about America and even a veteran’s anagram.
According to Kaufmann, the students also made cards for veterans. After the flag was completed, Kaufmann and the class chose to give it to the Wildwood Veterans of Foreign Wars.
“I wanted them to take ownership,” said Kaufmann, referring to students understanding the sacrifice so many have made throughout America’s history, recent and in the past.
The class responded with interest and a desire to give back. “They went home and talked with their parents,” Kaufmann added, describing their excitement.
The flag was taken to the Wildwood VFW and, in Kaufmann’s words, “they (the VFW) will probably have it up for a long time.”
Kaufmann, originally from north Jersey, attended Stockton University and taught at several schools before coming to Wildwood Middle.
“I love kids,” Kaufmann said. She expressed happiness that her sixth grade class will see how they, too, can make a difference.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.