On the first day of school, Neveln Elementary teacher Pat Purvis led her fourth grade class to the flag pole, where they recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

She and her students then discussed the meanings behind the words in the pledge, such as "united" and "republic." They learned what the stars and stripes represent.

Neveln Principal Jean McDermott observed Purvis' patriotic start to the new school year and other elements in her social studies classes. Because of Purvis' teaching style, she decided to nominate her for the Veterans of Foreign Wars National Citizenship Education Teacher Award.

Purvis was the sole nominee in Austin, but went on to win the district award, which covers southeastern Minnesota. Al Landherr, VFW commander and chairman of the award presented Purvis with $10 and an award Wednesday morning at the school.

"I think it was just in the back of my mind," Purvis said of the award. "It wasn't anything I was thinking about."

Purvis said she starts out the school year with the Pledge around the flag pole to prepare the students for the material they will cover in the coming year. Fourth graders learn more about the United States government, geography and immigration.

"Just is a way to help set the tone with what we're going to be studying," Purvis said.

After 34 years of teaching in the Austin School District, Purvis is retiring at the end of this school year. She said fourth graders have not really changed in their feeling of patriotism or attitude toward their country over the years. The main difference is that more of them have traveled to other parts of the country than in the past.

"Fourth graders are at a wonderful age because they're excited to learn about their country," Purvis said.

Purvis' feelings toward the United States started with hearing stories from her grandparents who immigrated from Sweden.

"They were extremely proud of becoming American citizens," Purvis said.

Since Sept. 11, 2001, Purvis said the concept of what a hero is has changed. Students have learned more about how firefighters and police officers risk their lives for people.

"It's something we didn't give enough credit to before," she said.

During this fall's 9/11 memorial service, Purvis said the students were respectful of the speakers and activities.

"It was wonderful to watch how well they listened and behaved," she said. "You kind of know you're touching the hearts of children when they react like that."

Purvis has taught both fourth and fifth grade during her teaching career. In retirement, she looks forward to traveling to some of the places she has talked about in class.

Purvis is now eligible to win the state competition. Michael Veldman, an Austin teacher, won the national competition last year, Landherr said.

Landherr said the award has been given out in the last five years. Education is important to the VFW, he said.

"It's a way for the VFW to say thank you to the teachers," Landherr said.

Purvis admits she's somewhat embarrassed by the recognition. She feels Neveln teachers, as a whole, do a good job of teaching children about their country.

"Every teacher in Austin is doing something to teach respect for our country," she said.

Cari Quam can be reached at 434-2235 or by e-mail at :mailto:cari.quam@austindailyherald.com