Recently, Morrison School District Superintendent Dr. Matt DeBaene reached out with a request: he wanted to purchase new flags for each school in the district to ensure they were flying fresh, crisp colors for the upcoming school year.
Instead of selling them, Morrison Legion members proudly voted to donate a new flag to each school in the district!
Commander Larry Zuidema (presenting the flag), flanked by Legionnaires Lloyd DeShane and Jesse Habben recently presented flags to the Morrison School District. Receiving the flags on behalf of the district are Superintendent Dr. Matt DeBaene, High School Principal Dr. Dusti Markham, Junior High Principal Joe Robbins, and Northside Principal Andy Harriage. (Not pictured: Southside Principal Matt McCormick).
The Legion was deeply moved by the Superintendent’s dedication to the Morrison community and his reasons for prioritizing this project:
“As Superintendent, one of my primary goals over the past few years has been to invest heavily in modernizing, repairing, and taking pride in our district’s facilities. From building upgrades to grounds enhancements across our campuses, we are actively showing our community and our students that Morrison School District takes deep pride in the physical spaces where our children learn and grow.
However, building upgrades and modern facilities are incomplete if the very first thing people see, our American flag, is faded, worn, or weathered.
Flying fresh, pristine flags at every school in our district is not just about curb appeal or physical maintenance; it is about civic pride and fundamental respect. When our students, staff, and community members pull up to our schools each morning, seeing a vibrant, dignified U.S. flag sets a standard. It serves as a daily, visible reminder of the freedoms we enjoy, the sacrifices made by our veterans, and the shared values that unite us.
Partnering with the American Legion to replace these flags allows us to marry our physical district improvements with a renewed emphasis on civic education, flag etiquette, and patriotism for our youth.”
American Legion Post 328 thanks Dr. DeBaene and the entire district leadership team for the partnership to ensure our nation’s colors are proudly displayed. The Legion wishes all Morrison students, teachers, and staff a fantastic, safe, and successful start to the new school year!
