Dressed from head to toe in red, white and blue, students and teachers at Wantagh Elementary School showed off their moves in a flash mob-style dance on June 14. The choreographed routine was the culmination of the annual Flag Day program and awards presentation.

The flag was raised and then lowered to half-mast as the crowd said the Pledge of Allegiance. That was followed by a performance of the National Anthem by fifth grade band students, under the direction of Danielle Fisher. Second graders, in matching Flag Day shirts, then stood in front of the school to sing a medley of patriotic tunes, including “God Bless America,” “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and “Fifty Nifty United States.”

Principal Dr. Randee Bonagura spoke about the history and symbolism of the United States flag and shared some interesting facts, like how it is the only flag ever to have been placed on the moon.

“The flag, with its 13 stripes and stars, is a reminder of the possibilities and potential of the United States,” she said. “The flag has been an inspiration for many and it guards our school every day.” 

A few of the school’s graduates were on-hand as seniors who received Wantagh Elementary PTA scholarships and were recognized. After several student awards for character and service, it was time for the flash mob to begin. Students, from pre-K to fifth grade, were seated on red, white and blue tarps on the front lawn and stood up and turned around to face a large gathering of parents. The dance featured several popular and patriotic songs, ending with “Proud to Be an American.”

The idea was spearheaded by the Shared Decision Making Committee which includes Dr. Bonagura, Assistant Principal Rachel Dender, teachers Melissa Edwards, Kaitlin Humphrey and Susan Maura, and parent Nicole Buffolino. The dance was choreographed by teacher Christina Mealey and students learned it in physical education with Ms. Edwards and James Brostowski. They practiced the routine for about a month so the flash mob could go off with flying colors.