It’s close to 3 p.m. on a sunny Thursday in November. Brooks Hill families are waiting in the pick-up line, ready to greet their students – but the day’s duties are not quite finished. Members of the school’s new Raiders on Patrol and Honor Guard team line up at the flagpole to assist in the school’s daily flag-lowering ceremony. Under the guidance of School Guardian Todd Frank, a Master Sergeant with the Air National Guard, the students remove the flag, fold it and secure the flagpole halyard. 

Fifth-grade students selected to join the Brooks Hill Raiders on Patrol are assigned posts around the school during arrival and dismissal, and assist in keeping other students safe and aware of their surroundings during the busiest times of day. Students rotate their post assignments under the guidance of Brooks Hill Health Teacher Vicki Cappotelli and Mr. Frank. 

Raiders on Patrol have the opportunity to be selected for the Honor Guard, which is responsible for the respectful raising, lowering and storage of the American flag each day. 

“It has been a privilege watching our Raiders on Patrol who have been selected to serve as our Honor Guard at Brooks Hill,” said Cappotelli. “They have learned that honoring the American flag is an essential practice that demonstrates respect for the country’s history and values.”

Said Mr. Frank, “[T]he Safety Patrol Honor Guard Team is proud to participate daily in the time honored tradition of the folding of our American flag”.  

The students serving on the Honor Guard on that sunny November Thursday said they enjoy their part in the special assignment, and that being part of the Raiders on Patrol gives them a strong sense of belonging and leadership. They hope to continue their responsibilities when they move into middle school. 

Guardian Frank Todd and Health Teacher Vicki Cappotelli with four Brooks Hill Raiders on Patrol and Honor Guard members.