If you’ve been in the military or worked for the Defense Department, you know what a challenge coin is. They’ve been an American military tradition for a century, meant to instill unit pride, improve esprit de corps, and reward hard work and excellence.
The coins represent anything from a small unit to the offices of top leaders, such as the defense secretary. There are also coins made for special events, anniversaries and even non-military leaders. Many service members and veterans proudly display challenge coins at their desks or homes, showing off the many missions they’ve been on, the top leaders they’ve met and the units for which they’ve worked.
District 228 is now awarding our own challenge coin. The Maple Leaf Medallion is awarded to those individuals who demonstrate Teach – Learn – Care of the highest order in the classroom, on the court, or in the community.
Our plan is to award 100 Maple Leaf Medallions to deserving individuals each year, which represents about 3% of our total student and staff population. Community members are also eligible for the award. I will seek help with nominations from students, staff, and administrators, but they can also be spontaneous and I should always have one with me just in case. Nomination someone for a Maple Leaf Medallion now.
Dr. Adam Brumbaugh
Superintendent
Geneseo Community Unit School District #228