Harmony Elementary School Wins First And Second Place In American History Door-Decorating Contest

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — On Wednesday, the Middletown Township Historical Society announced the winners of its America 250 Door Decorating Contest.

This contest asked students in Middletown public schools to explore America's history in a fun, creative and educational way as America prepares to celebrate its 250^th birthday.

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Launched in January, the contest invited teachers and students to decorate their classroom doors inspired by events and themes from our nation’s founding to the present day.

Lana Cook, school supervisor of secondary curriculum & instruction, served as liaison for the program and helped coordinate the contest. Nearly 50 entries were submitted from classrooms throughout the Middletown school district. After careful consideration, the Middletown Historical Society selected the following classrooms to win a total of $250:

• First Place: Sharon Doelger’s K-5 Art Classes at Harmony Elementary School for Freedom to Create
• Second Place: Michael Kelleher’s 4th Grade Class at Harmony Elementary School for Revolutionary Heroes

Sharon Doelger’s K-5 art classes received the $175 first-place award, while Michael Kelleher’s fourth grade class received the $75 second-place award.

On May 7, MTHS Trustee Tara Berson visited the winning classrooms alongside Middletown Mayor Tony Perry. During the visit, students were congratulated for their creativity and hard work, and prizes were presented to the winning classes. Harmony Elementary School Principal Erik Paulson accompanied them during the classroom presentations.

“This contest exceeded all expectations,” said Thomas Valenti, president of the Middletown Historical Society. “From artistic interpretations to historically inspired themes, the decorated doors reflected an impressive amount of imagination and research. With so many outstanding submissions, selecting just two winners was extremely difficult. We congratulate all participating students, teachers, and schools for their efforts.”

“The level of participation from schools across Middletown was incredible,” said Mayor Perry, who spearheaded the Middletown America 250 Committee. “As we prepare to celebrate America’s 250^th birthday, it’s important that young people feel connected to the stories, people, and events that shaped both our nation and our community. Programs like this help bring Middletown’s rich heritage to life for the next generation.”

“Our students and teachers embraced this opportunity with tremendous enthusiasm,” said principal Paulson. “The project allowed students to learn more about our history in a hands-on and memorable way. We appreciate the Middletown Township Historical Society for creating this opportunity for our students.”