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Patriotic Project for HCSD Students
Hancock students in group

The Hancock Central School District welcomed Randy and Cindy Whiting on Friday to talk about Justin’s Patriotic Project, a Hancock Community Education Foundation program that honors a Hancock High School graduate who died for his country.

Named after the Whitings’ son, Justin's Patriotic Project is a contest for students in grades 3-10 that encourages children to take pride in themselves, their school, and the land in which they live. It asks students to be the best that they can be by staying in school, graduating and going on to higher education or the Armed Forces.

Students are asked to submit entries that describe their thoughts on the importance of education, citizenship and patriotism. While this is an essay contest for those in grades 5-10, students in grades 3-4 may submit a poster or an essay that conveys what it means to be a U.S. citizen and what they can do to help their neighbors, community and country.

All projects are completed during school hours and submitted to the Legacy of Honor nominating committee by HCSD teachers on or before June 7. The committee will select one winner from each grade. Winners will read their essays during an awards ceremony and receive monetary prizes, starting at $50 for third grade and increasing $50 for each grade thereafter (i.e. $400 prize for grade 10 winner).

The Legacy of Honor and Justin’s Patriotic Project pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of SSG Justin R. Whiting, US Army Special Forces. Justin died January 19, 2008, at age 27 while serving in Iraq.

Visit HCEF online at https://www.hancockeducationfoundation.org/justin_patriot.php for more information.