HOULTON, Maine — Summit Academy students spent the morning of Friday, May 21, placing American flags on the graves of veterans at Houlton’s Soldier Hill.
Along with the guidance of Milton Cone, Scott Brewer of the American Legion Post No. 47 and Dennis Geiger of the Aroostook County Marine Corps League Detachment 1368, roughly a dozen students helped place hundreds of flags at Evergreen and St. Mary’s cemeteries in Houlton.
“Part of the school’s curriculum is community service and the students were really honored to do it in support of our veterans and their families,” explained Dee Butler, a teacher at the Summit Academy. “Summit Academy is an alternative high school where students feel safe to be themselves and not be judged. The school is a less stressful environment than regular high school, and students are encouraged to be respectful toward each other and their communities. Summit Academy teaches life lessons so that students can become what they are capable of.”
Students were divided into groups and worked together, straightening, replacing broken holders and placing new flags on the graves.
Summit students, Cheridan Johnson and Kylie Lafleur, said “It felt really good to give back, it was a privilege to honor the veterans and show appreciation for their service.”
Another student Jonica Lord stated, “I saw a gravestone that stated, ‘loving son, father and grandfather,’ seeing that made him more than a veteran he was also a family member. He served his country and his family. I also was privileged to put flags on my family members’ graves.”
Students agreed they learned a lot and came home with a better understanding of the local history. Students described this experience as uplifting and invigorating.
The students were also glad to get out of the classroom, especially at the end of a really unique year.
“We are very proud of our kids,” said Dawn Matthews, Summit Academy teacher/principal. “They worked hard in the bugs and heat and did a very good job.”
Butler added that this is a project that she did at Houlton High School and brought it with her to Summit Academy.
“I reached out to Milton several years ago and we have worked together on this project ever since, with the exception of last year due to COVID-19,” she said.
