The Charlotte Parkhurst Chapter was thrilled to learn the teacher they nominated for the DAR “American Revolutionary Legacy Award” was one of only 31 winners nationwide! Mike Smith, an 8th grade history teacher at Marina Village Middle School in El Dorado Hills, was caught completely off guard at a recent staff meeting when he learned he had been awarded a $2500 grant from the National Community Classroom Committee. Chapter Regent Bobbi Bennett and Classroom Committee Chairman Deborah Carlson were there to present the award.

Smith’s grant application focuses on the process of conducting student interviews and then transferring that information to a digital platform for public viewing. Following the designated Stars & Stripes Forever theme, he will ask his students these questions: What does the American flag mean to you? and Do you think America’s view of the flag has changed since the American Revolution, if so, how?

The goal of his project is to engage students in productive conversations about the American flag, have students conduct historical interviews within the community, and practice civic responsibilities. The project will begin at the start of the school year next fall.

In addition to the Legacy Grant Award, more awards and accolades were in store for nine deserving students who received DAR Youth Citizenship Medals. Nominated by teachers from five different schools, the students were recognized at the chapter meeting and awards assemblies throughout the month of May.