VIDEO: Clarence Students, Staff Celebrate Flag Day

Students and staff across the Clarence Central School District joined together to honor the flag and show their patriotism as schools marked Flag Day.

The celebration of the holiday, which marks the anniversary of the adoption of the flag of the United States in 1777, included history lessons, musical performances as well as recognitions of military veterans. 

At Sheridan Hill Elementary School, the day was marked with the roar of motorcycles from The Hogs and Heroes Foundation NY-1, and a parade of students clad in red, white and blue in front of the school building.

“To see the kids and the patriotism, it’s heartwarming,” said John Meyer, president of the North Tonawanda-based foundation. “You hope to instill a sense of pride in the country, so the kids do the right thing and make the right choices.”

Moving inside, students performed multiple songs and skits about America’s history, and presented a check for $1,924 to Buffalo-Niagara Honor Flight, which pays tribute to area military veterans by bringing them to see military landmarks and memorials in Washington, D.C. 

Timothy Maciejewski, who served in the Army during the Vietnam War and participated in a Honor Flight trip in 2022, thanked students and families for their generosity, and marveled at the students’ enthusiasm.

“I see hope,” he said. “I see loving the country a little more than in the past.”

Jenna Arroyo, the elementary’s school principal, said the enthusiasm for the day spread across classes and grade levels.

“The students understand the significance and importance of the day, and they have a lot of fun with it,” she said. 

The ceremony at Sheridan Hill Elementary School was one of many celebrations across the district, which also included music, educational lessons and celebrations at Clarence Center Elementary School, Ledgeview Elementary School and Harris Hill Elementary School. 

More information about Flag Day can be found at https://www.loc.gov/item/today-in-history/june-14.