Holy Family Catholic Academy student honored for patriot essay
Parents throughout the country have struggled to explain to their children the recent events that took place in our Capitol. The scenes from Jan. 6 were all over social media, television and print media, with breaking news banners highlighting yet more troubling details.
While experienced psychologists and other trusted sources have given parents some guidance, sometimes we need look no further than our own children to help make sense of difficult situations.
Holy Family Catholic Academy eighth-grade student Zach Waltuck has quietly led the way to help his classmates focus on the true meaning of patriotism. In October 2020, long before the January events, Zach participated in the annual VFW Patriot's Pen youth essay contest. Each year, more than 125,000 students nationwide compete in this contest, with local posts awarding prizes for the best essay.
This year, students in grades six-eight were asked to write an essay answering this year's theme, "What is Patriotism to Me?" Zach was named the first-place winner for VFW Post 5151 on Jan. 12.
Zach's winning essay defined patriotism as much more than devotion to our country and added that being a patriot does not mean always agreeing with our country's decisions. He pointed out that being a proud American includes looking at our country's flaws and mistakes and working to improve them.
Jeanne Olmstead, Holy Family Catholic Academy middle school language arts teacher, said Zach's essay captured both the idealism and resilience she sees in her students.
"Our students, like many others, were a bit shaken returning to class on Jan. 7. It was so valuable to be able to talk about this historic event and share their feelings. I have no doubt that if asked to write about patriotism on Jan. 7, rather than in October, the students would be expressing their views with much more passion."
When asked his thoughts about the events on Jan. 6, Zach said, "At first I was really shocked and disappointed, especially since some of the rioters were calling themselves patriots, but I know that America is strong and we will move forward."
"One of the great things about teaching young people is that they often are a source of optimism," Olmstead said. "They have clear ideas on how life can be better, and they are filled with hope for a better future."
Holy Family Catholic Academy Principal Kate O'Brien goes a step further and points out the value of dedicated and empathetic teachers.
"I am so proud that our faculty not only teaches content, but challenges and empowers our students to think critically and engage in the world around them. We congratulate Zach, and sincerely thank him for stirring a renewed sense of patriotism in each of us."
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