08/26/2026
What happens when you give students a meaningful challenge instead of a worksheet?
At Providence, they don't just learn about making a difference—they actually make one.
Through our Grant in Action program, a group of students set out to create a beautiful entrance to our campus with an American flag and Christian flag visible from the highway.
It sounded simple: install a flagpole and raise the flags.
Then they discovered a problem.
The City of Burlington's ordinance limited flag sizes to just 20 square feet—too small to accomplish their vision.
Instead of giving up, our students started asking questions.
Why does the ordinance exist? Who makes these decisions? Can it be changed?
Those questions took learning beyond the classroom.
Students met with City of Burlington officials, learned how local ordinances are created, and experienced civic engagement firsthand. Their efforts ultimately helped lead to an amendment increasing the allowable flag size from 20 square feet to 60 square feet!
With support from our Annual Fund through Grant in Action, their vision became a reality with a professionally installed flagpole, illuminated American and Christian flags, and lighting that allows the display to be seen day and night.
But the flagpole isn't the greatest accomplishment.
It's what was built inside our students.
They practiced research, collaboration, public speaking, problem-solving, perseverance, and respectful advocacy. Most importantly, they discovered that their ideas and voices can make a real difference.
This is what learner-driven education can look like.
At Providence, children aren't waiting to become leaders someday.
They're learning to lead today. 🇺🇸