Kayley Wulkan has a bright future.
The 11 year old sixth grader at the Henry Wells Middle School in Brewster has taken top honors in the New York State Daughters of the American Revolution, “What the American Flag Means to Me” writing contest.
Kayley’s teacher, Bridget Potusek described her student as an “amazing and highly dedicated young lady.
“Kayley has a great future with many more successes waiting,” Potusek said.
Wells Middle School Assistant Principal John Clark agreed with Potusek’s statement.
“Kayley is one of Brewster’s shining stars who I know we will hear about in the years to come,” Clark added.
Kayley first took regional honors before her essay was submitted to the state competition. Last week she received word that her essay was New York’s Gold Prize winner.
Read Kayley’s essay below:
“The symbols on the American Flag have special meaning. There are thirteen stripes to represent the thirteen original colonies. There are also fifty white stars to represent the fifty states that make up the United States of America.
However, to me, the American Flag stands for so much more than just symbols. When I see an American Flag proudly displayed or blowing in a breeze, I feel appreciative and proud, and full of American spirit.
I have a lot of pride in our country and in our great nation. America is land of the free and home of the brave. I feel every American should have pride in our country.
America is an independent and free country, because of all the heroes who fought in all the wars, to protect us and keep us safe. These heroes had to sacrifice so much to keep America free, strong and safe.
All Americans should honor our country and all the leaders, past and present, who made America what it is today. Also, honor is again for all the military, who have defended our country, past and present as well. Every American should honor our military, because without them, we wouldn’t be who we are today. Maybe we wouldn’t be a free country and maybe we wouldn’t even have our American Flag, if we hadn’t always had our strong, dedicated military to defend us. So we should always honor them for all they have done. When I see the American Flag, it reminds me to honor our military in my heart.
I feel patriotism towards America, every time I see an American Flag. It is a good reminder. I am so proud that my family has an American Flag at our house, and I think every American should too. This way everyone can show their patriotism and what the American Flag stands for to them as well!”