Kindergarten through fifth grade students at Bronxville Elementary School celebrated the United States’ 250th anniversary with a schoolwide parade on June 4. During the celebration on the school’s front lawn, students from each grade shared what they learned about American history and democracy throughout the school year before parading with their classmates.
Kindergartners shared fun facts about the American flag, including Flag Day, the flag’s 13 stripes and 50 stars, its nickname “Old Glory,” and the flag being planted on the moon. Students from Alexa Vafeades and Melissa Wood’s classes kicked off the celebration by singing “Happy Birthday” to America and later highlighted the national recognition of special education in 1975 through the Education for All Handicapped Children Act.
First graders recognized notable Americans, including Ruby Bridges, Thomas Edison, Helen Keller, Abraham Lincoln and Yo-Yo Ma, explaining their contributions to the country.
Second graders discussed important symbols of the United States, including the bald eagle, Liberty Bell, White House, Statue of Liberty and the American flag.
Third graders shared what they learned about government, democracy and the voting process through a school election project. They explained how they practiced voting, counting ballots fairly and understanding how elections help citizens make decisions together.
Fourth graders traced the history of New York from Native American communities in the Hudson Valley through exploration, colonization, independence, industrialization and immigration. They also learned about landmarks, such as Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, as symbols of hope and opportunity.
Fifth graders reflected on their study of the U.S. Constitution and its amendments, emphasizing how they are designed to protect the rights and freedoms of citizens.
The parade celebrated 250 years of American history while showcasing the students’ learning and appreciation for the people and events that have shaped the nation.
The Village of Bronxville Mayor Mary Marvin was the parade’s grand marshal.