Opinion: Scout leaves his mark on College Preparatory Middle School

**Scouts Project: Installing a Flagpole at College Preparatory Middle School**

Little did I know when I joined Scouts at six years old that it would shape my life so profoundly. Beyond lifelong friendships and unforgettable high-adventure treks, scouting gave me the chance to make a lasting impact through my Eagle Scout project.

I chose to partner with College Preparatory Middle School in Spring Valley, a tight-knit, supportive community that had truly benefited me. After meeting with the school’s directors, Mr. Miller and Ms. Callaway, to determine what the school needed, we decided on installing a flagpole that would be visible from the freeway. This flagpole would also teach middle schoolers about civic engagement, as students could raise and lower the flag each day.

To start, I immediately began fundraising. Thanks to very generous donations and support from T. B. Penick and Sons, Inc., American Legion Post 303, Spring Valley Kiwanis Club, Elks Lodge 1812, and numerous community members, I was able to raise the necessary funds.

To lead and manage the project, I collaborated closely with the school, the flagpole company, and the construction crew. During construction, I put into practice the skills I developed at leadership camps. I worked alongside builders and my fellow scouts from Troop 362 to dig the hole and install the pole. We poured concrete, installed ropes, lifted the 25-foot flagpole, and ensured everything was level and secure.

On September 21, I saw firsthand the power of effective leadership driven by hard work, communication, organization, and persistence. Following the completion of the project, the American flag and school flag were raised for the first time during a Scout color guard ceremony.

Moving forward, I will be training middle schoolers on how to care for and properly raise and lower the flags.

This project taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, collaboration, and the importance of giving back to the community. I’m grateful to have left a lasting mark on my middle school for everyone to enjoy.

*Editor’s note: This article was written by Steele Canyon High School senior Trent Brooks. He is an alum of College Preparatory Middle School in Spring Valley.*
https://timesofsandiego.com/opinion/2025/10/17/opinion-scout-leaves-mark-on-college-prepa-middle-school/

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