Flag Day was celebrated at Commack Road Elementary School and Maud S. Sherwood Elementary School on June 13 in red, white and blue-themed ceremonies featuring the raising of the school’s flags, recognition of local veterans and joyful performances of music celebrating the flag and America itself. At Sherwood, student winners of the Flag Day principal’s challenge to create their own artistic version of the American flag were recognized, while at Commack Road, second-, third-, fourth- and fifth-grade contest winners were honored alongside academic and music award winners. Both ceremonies displayed the pride and civic bonds shared by the Islip community, its students and its veterans.
“It is a true pleasure to see so many of our families and honored guests here with us today as we gather to reflect on the meaning of the American flag and what it represents for our nation and our community,” Commack Road Principal Jackie Beckmann said. “Flag Day is a special time for us to come together, not only to celebrate the symbol of our country, but also to recognize the values it stands for: freedom, unity and hope. Each year, this special event honors and recognizes all those that serve our country and community. Your presence today reinforces the importance of community and the values we strive to instill in our students. And finally, to our students, you are the heart of this celebration. Your voices, your ideas and your patriotism inspire us all. We are so proud of the way you represent Commack Road and the future of our country.”
“The flag has waved above us through moments of triumph, like when we gained our independence and took meaningful steps towards justice and equality,” Sherwood Principal Briana James said. “It has stood tall during our hardest times, through wars, struggles and moments when we have been called to come together, even when it wasn’t easy. Through it all, the American flag has remained a steady presence, a quiet but powerful reminder of the values that bind us: freedom, courage, unity and perseverance. It represents the belief that even in difficult times, we can hold on to hope, stand up for what is right and move forward together. The flag reminds us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves, no matter where we come from or what challenges we face. We are united by a shared promise to keep working toward a better future for all.”
Date Added: 6/24/2025