Yancey County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the successful new program at South Toe Elementary honoring the American Flag. School Resource Officer Tony Hoover started the American Flag Program, which began last year with the 5th-grade students and was continued this school year.
Since the beginning, the American Flag program has been dedicated to giving these students a deep understanding of flag etiquette, including correct handling, folding techniques, and the significance of each fold.
Building on the success of the program, Officer Hoover challenged the 5th-grade class to design a unique school flag. The new flag would be used for special (school) occasions and if agreed upon with the students of the whole school would be adopted as the “Official School Flag”.
Under the guidance of 5th-grade teacher Mrs. Rene Smith, students were organized into groups and tasked with creating flag designs. After presenting eight designs, the entire school voted for their favorite. The winning design incorporates symbolism representing the 6 grades(K-5) in stripes, a prominent wildcat paw-print that symbolizes school spirit, and in the bottom corner a beautiful mountain view that serves as a tribute to the school’s surroundings. The 5th-grade students devised three specific folds to store their flag, when not in use, representing EDUCATE, ENCOURAGE, EMPOWER.
After the design was picked, 5th-grade teacher, Mrs. Rene Smith digitized the selection and sent it off for manufacturing, financed by the PTO of the school. In a special ceremony held on Monday, March 11th, South Toe principal, Ms. Silvers, presented the official school flag to all students. Additionally, the two students responsible for the winning design were awarded miniature flags as tokens of appreciation for their creativity and commitment to the project.
“The creation of the official school flag is a testament to the dedication and creativity of our students. With enthusiasm, through their hard work, the 5th-grade have not only learned about flag etiquette but also demonstrated the importance of unity and pride in the school community,” Said School Resource Officer Hoover.
Each morning and afternoon, Officer Hoover escorts two 5th-grade students, on rotation, to raise and lower the American Flag in front of the school, creating a sense of responsibility and respect among students.
“I commend the efforts of the 5th-grade students, as well as Officer Hoover, and the staff of South Toe Elementary for their outstanding contribution to the school’s heritage and spirit,” said Sheriff Shane Hilliard. “Understanding the significance of treating our flag with dignity and respect will help these students continue to uphold these values in the future.”
