A Capital Achievement

Students from Gaffney Elementary School will have their artwork featured on the Connecticut tree beside the National Christmas Tree in President’s Park in Washington, D.C. 

This beloved national tradition, led by the National Park Foundation and the National Park Service, features 59 trees representing each U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia, as well as the Bureau of Indian Education, Department of Defense Education Activities, and America 250. Each tree is decorated with ornaments designed by K–12 students from across the country.

Ornaments created by Gaffney Elementary students celebrate the culture, history, landscapes, and iconic symbols of Connecticut, bringing a meaningful piece of home to the nation’s capital and showcasing the creativity of New Britain students on a national stage. The project was led by Art Teacher Julie Flynn, who supported students in researching meaningful symbols of the state, developing artistic concepts, and bringing their ideas to life in the ornaments.

“Our students poured so much heart, talent, and pride into these ornaments,” said Gaffney Principal Anita Fazio. “This opportunity would not have been possible without the leadership of our art teacher, Ms. Julie Flynn, who inspired students, supported their research, and helped them transform their ideas into beautiful works of art. To know that their creativity will be showcased in our nation’s capital, representing both Connecticut and New Britain, is truly incredible.”

The students received strong support from former New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart, who recently concluded her sixth term as Mayor of New Britain. Mayor Stewart visited Gaffney to personally congratulate each participating student, presenting them with a certificate and commemorative coin in recognition of their hard work and for proudly representing New Britain on a national stage.

“It is an incredible honor to have the City of New Britain chosen to represent the State of Connecticut for this exhibition. This is a national display that will showcase our great City and State through the artistic lens of our very own students from Gaffney Elementary School,” said former Mayor Erin E. Stewart. “It is an honor to be chosen by the Trump administration for this opportunity, and we look forward to showcasing the beauty of New Britain and Connecticut to all of those who visit the National Christmas Tree Experience.”

The display will be open to the public from December 6 through January  1, 2026, and is free for all visitors. Ornaments can also be viewed online at thenationaltree.org/ornaments.

View photos here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/ygTLZ3nmoVkaocc9A