Faith at the Flagpole: Students Across Keystone Central Unite in Prayer for Their Schools

By Autumn Gavlock

CLINTON COUNTY — In the quiet early morning hours of September 24, 2025, students, parents, teachers, and staff gathered voluntarily around flagpoles across the Keystone Central School District for a moment of prayer, unity, and reflection. The occasion was See You at the Pole—a globally recognized, student-led day of prayer that takes place annually on the fourth Wednesday in September.

Editor’s Note: See You at the Pole is not a district-sponsored event. It is entirely student-initiated and student-led, and participation is voluntary. This event is constitutionally protected under the First Amendment but is not organized, funded, or endorsed by Keystone Central School District.

This year, the movement reached new heights across the district. Schools including Renovo Elementary/Bucktail Middle-High School, Central Mountain High School, and Woodward Elementary hosted gatherings before the school day began, with nearly 70 students, staff, and family members in attendance. The increased participation not only highlighted the personal importance of faith to many students and families but also reflected the growing presence of student-led spiritual leadership within the school community.

From Campus to Campus: Students Take the Lead

At Central Mountain High School, 25 students and staff came together under the organization of Student leader Cammy Hull of the school’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes Group. Who led the prayer time, offering up heartfelt petitions for classmates, teachers, and the daily pressures facing high school students today. The group also prayed for the nation’s unity in a divided world, and for courage to live out their faith boldly in their daily lives.

One participant noted the significance of what they witnessed: “In a world full of noise, anxiety, and uncertainty, we are seeing students choose stillness, peace, and faith. They’re stepping up—not just as students, but as leaders.”

At Woodward Elementary School, 22 students and staff gathered early that morning, joined by parents and young student leaders. Their prayers were filled with sincerity and simplicity—many

praying for kindness in the classroom, the safety of their school, encouragement for their teachers, and for their fellow students to feel loved and supported.

Meanwhile, at Renovo Elementary, located on the Bucktail Campus, 23 students and families participated—more than doubling last year’s turnout. From the youngest kindergartners to middle/high school students, prayers were lifted by all who attended. Students lifted up their friends, their teachers, their coaches, and their school’s future. There was a powerful sense of unity and mutual respect as students voiced their faith openly and confidently.

Children Praying Boldly: A Message of Hope

Among the most touching moments of the morning were the heartfelt prayers offered by students themselves. Andrew Kramer, a second grader, expressed gratitude for his loving parents and grandparents, his best buddies and playmates, and even added a cheerful request for no rain at recess. His simple yet sincere words brought smiles to those around him—a beautiful reminder of the innocence and honesty that shines through the prayers of young hearts.

Paxton Nelen,a 6th grader,  followed with a quiet but meaningful prayer for his best friend, his teacher, and his school—a tender reflection of just how deeply children care for the people and places that shape their daily lives.

Perhaps the most spiritually reflective prayer came from Berkley Nelen,a 4th grader, who prayed that children of all ages—big or small—would never question whether they are loved by Jesus. He reminded those present that, no matter how many mistakes they make, God’s love never fails. He said, “That’s why He gave His life—so we can spend eternity with God.” His words, though spoken by a child, resonated deeply with those in attendance and reflected a level of understanding and spiritual clarity well beyond his years.

These student-led prayers were touching and sincere, offering a sweet glimpse into the hearts of young children who are beginning to explore faith in their own way. Even at such a young age, their simple words and genuine hopes reflected kindness, care, and a desire to see good things for their friends, teachers, and schools.

Parents and Community Join in Voluntarily

While the emphasis of See You at the Pole remains on student voices, many parents and community members chose to gather alongside them to offer their own prayers for the school communities and show their support. 

Midge Kramer, a parent, prayed for the teachers and for the quality and integrity of the curriculum being taught to students throughout the district. Her words reflected a deep care for what is being poured into young minds day after day.

Tabby Kshir prayed for safety in and around school buildings—not only protection from outside threats, but also against harmful influences that can make their way inside. She emphasized the importance of students feeling safe and supported emotionally, physically, and spiritually within their schools.

Angelia Rega prayed for students going through transitions—whether changing schools, classrooms, or academic paths—and lifted up her own children’s personal challenges as they adjusted to new changes.

Martha Sykes, a retired teacher, gave thanks to God for the freedom to continue gathering in prayer, even in public spaces. She asked for divine protection over the district, guidance for its leaders, and for the hearts of students and staff to be open to the message of Christ. She closed with a message of spiritual invitation: “May hearts turn to Christ, and may students come to know that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the light.”

Why Prayer Matters — And Why It’s Protected

See You at the Pole is part of a national movement that began in 1990 and is now observed by students in thousands of schools across the country. What makes it so unique is that it is completely student-initiated and student-led, without involvement or sponsorship from public school districts. This structure ensures that it remains in alignment with the First Amendment, which protects both the freedom of religion and freedom of speech.

At a time when students face increasing anxiety, societal pressures, and personal challenges, opportunities like See You at the Pole provide a meaningful space for students to pause, reflect, and seek peace. It allows them to connect with others, build moral confidence, and develop leadership skills through their faith.

For many students and families, these prayer gatherings serve as reminders of identity, hope, and purpose. They are moments that center around the love of Jesus Christ, and the belief that every child is beautifully and wonderfully made by their Creator—regardless of the world’s changing messages.

A Tradition Sparked by Students, Growing in Spirit

This year’s growing participation shows that one school’s commitment—Renovo Elementary’s decision to start this tradition locally in 2022—can inspire a wider movement of student-led faith expression. As more schools join in each year, a strong spiritual culture of unity, compassion, and moral clarity continues to take root across the district.

Students across Keystone Central are already beginning to talk about future plans—faith-based student clubs, prayer groups, and service projects that extend beyond this single day of prayer. Each idea is grounded in the same student-led spirit that defines See You at the Pole.

The next See You at the Pole event is scheduled for Wednesday, September 23, 2026, and all students, families, and staff are encouraged to participate voluntarily if they choose, continuing this growing tradition of prayer, purpose, and student leadership.

*See You at the Pole is not sponsored or endorsed by the Keystone Central School District. It is a student-initiated and student-led prayer gathering held before school hours, protected under the U.S. Constitution. All participation is voluntary.