HFCA Student Wins Award for a Fresh Take on Patriotism

Parents throughout the country have struggled to explain to their children the recent events that took place in our Capitol. The scenes from January 6th 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’s 8th grade student, Zach Waltuck has quietly led the way to help his classmates focus on the true meaning of patriotism. Back in October, long before the January events, Zach participated in the annual VFW’s 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 6-8 were asked to write an essay answering this year’s theme, “What is Patriotism to Me?” Zach was announced as the 1st place winner of VFW Post 5151 on January 12--just one week after the Capitol riot.

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.

Mrs. Jeanne Olmstead, an HFCA middle school language arts teacher explains that 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 January 7th. 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 January 7th rather than in October, the students would be expressing their views with much more passion.”

When asked his thoughts about the events on January 6th, Zach shared, “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.”

Mrs. Olmstead adds, “One of the great things about teaching young people is that they often are a source of optimism. They have clear ideas on how life can be better, and they are filled with hope for a better future.”

HFCA 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.”