Third-graders Uncover Middleburgh Township History

Community celebrates America's 250th with educational gift packets for local students

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:20pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus scene of children's hands turning the pages of an old book, bathed in warm, hazy light, conveying a nostalgic and dreamlike atmosphere around the exploration of local history.The gift packets aim to spark early curiosity about local history and foster a sense of community pride among third-graders in Berea, Brook Park and Middleburg Heights.Berea Today

As part of the celebrations for America's 250th birthday, every third-grader in Berea, Brook Park and Middleburg Heights, Ohio will receive special gift packets from the America 250 Tri-City Committee. The packets will include a 'mystery' book wrapped with a historical clue, a coloring book with scenes from local history, and a 250th anniversary sticker. The packets will be presented by historical interpreters portraying figures from the area's past.

Why it matters

This initiative aims to engage young students in learning about the shared history of the three communities, sparking their curiosity and fostering a sense of local pride and belonging as the nation celebrates a major milestone.

The details

The gift packets will be distributed to over 400 students in public and parochial schools across Berea, Brook Park and Middleburg Heights. The 'mystery' book is intended to pique the students' interest, while the coloring book and sticker will provide hands-on educational materials and commemorative keepsakes. The historical interpreters will bring the area's past to life, further immersing the students in the rich history of their local communities.

  • The gift packets will be presented to third-graders in the three cities as part of the America 250 celebrations in 2026.

The players

Marylynne Podusiwsky

President of the Middleburg Heights Historical Society, who is coordinating the distribution of the gift packets.

America 250 Tri-City Committee

A joint effort by the cities of Berea, Brook Park and Middleburg Heights to observe the unique and shared history of the three communities.

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What they’re saying

“As part of the celebrations for America's 250th birthday, every third-grader in Berea, Brook Park and Middleburg Heights will receive special gift packets from the America 250 Tri-City Committee.”

— Marylynne Podusiwsky, President, Middleburg Heights Historical Society

What’s next

The Middleburg Heights Historical Society is seeking donations of third-grade level books and funds to cover the cost of printing the coloring books for the gift packets. Residents can drop off book donations at the Berea Historical Society or Middleburg Heights Community Center, or make financial contributions to the historical society.

The takeaway

This community-driven initiative to educate local students about the shared history of Berea, Brook Park and Middleburg Heights demonstrates the importance of fostering a sense of local identity and pride, especially as the nation celebrates a major milestone like the 250th anniversary of America's founding.