Prekindergarden students at Andre Lucas Elementary celebrate Month of the Military Child

Prekindergarten students at Andre Lucas Elementary School recently marked Month of the Military Child with a hands-on tie-dye project that blended creativity, skill-building and patriotism.

Guided by teacher Stephanie Martin and paraeducator Kati Young, the children twisted, scrunched and squeezed shirts before spraying them with purple dye. Purple represents all branches of the U.S. military, giving students a tangible way to honor military children and families.

Students strengthened fine motor skills and coordination through the purposeful movements while working together to share materials and space. With adult support for tying, every child stayed actively involved. They watched with excitement as the color spread and blended, turning each shirt into a one-of-a-kind creation.

“My shirt!” one student exclaimed. “I love it!” another added.

The children proudly wore their finished shirts, reinforcing classroom unity and a shared sense of connection to the military community they serve. The activity reflects DoWEA’s emphasis on patriotism by helping even the youngest students appreciate service across all branches, while building focus, persistence and collaboration through practical, experiential learning — foundations that support civic awareness and classical principles from the start.