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Sunday, September 30, 2001     Page: 3B

My letter is in response to the article “Father longs for pledge to be
taught to everyone,” published Sept. 25. I would like to share with the
readers some of my experiences at the Wyoming Valley Montessori School, where
two of my children attend school.
   
Last year, my fifth-grade son studied American history for the entire
school year. For Halloween, the children decided to dress as presidents of the
United States. The costumes were made in art class at school and a “Hall of
Presidents” was presented in an all-school assembly. My son learned about the
Bill of Rights and the United States Constitution. His class performed a play
of the Boston Tea Party for the other children in the school, and the parents.
The children discussed how the early patriots must have felt.
    On an everyday basis, my children learn how to resolve disputes with other
children. They have a strong sense of community. They are proud of who they
are, yet appreciate the differences in others. Each month, a different class
collects and delivers food to the local food bank. I believe that the Wyoming
Valley Montessori School fosters good citizenship in the children. The
children learn to be proud of their school, their community, their country and
the world.
   
Just to address the flag issue, there are two American flags displayed at
our school. One hangs from the front of the Annex. The other American flag is
in the Great Room, along with a world flag (which, in my opinion, symbolizes
the hope that all people in the world may one day be at peace). The flag in
the Great Room was exhibited there long before the terrorist attacks on our
country.
   
I think we need to focus on the positive things that our school does to
promote patriotism. After all, our children are our best hope for peace in
this world.
   
I would like to note that this is my personal opinion. I’m glad I live in a
great country like ours where I may express it freely.
   
Paula Panzitta
   
Harding