2026 America's Field Trip Awardees
We are proud to celebrate four talented students from the Northern Mariana Islands who are among the 250 awardees in the 2026 America’s Field Trip contest sponsored by America250.
This year, more than 10,000 in grades 3-12 from all 50 states, five U.S. territories, and Washington, D.C., submitted original writing and artwork in response to the questions, “What does America mean to you?” Entries were judged by a panel of current and former educators, and these students earned recognition for their creativity, civic spirit, and unique perspectives.
First Place Winner Haani B.’s Submission:
An island surrounded by blue ocean, the American flag rises. That flag represents identity, opportunity, growth, and belonging. Growing up in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, especially on a small island like Rota, shaped how I see the United States, or “The mainland” as we call it. The mainland exists through photographs, movies, and stories from relatives who’ve moved away. Yet I’ve realized surrounded by waters that stretch beyond sight, where roosters crow, at sunrise, and neighbors greet each other across the road, the American flag flies. Beneath it, we pledge allegiance to a nation thousands of miles away. For as long as I can remember, since kindergarten, I learned to sing the U.S. anthem alongside the CNMI and Rota anthems, and even now, the words rise effortlessly—proof that belonging can take root long before we understand its meaning. America isn’t just skyscrapers and packed streets—it’s also coconut trees, tight-knit communities, and traditions.
We officially pledged allegiance on March 24, 1976. President Gerald R. Ford signed the agreement that made us a U.S. commonwealth, granting us citizenship. That day, now known as Covenant Day, is more than ink on paper and a fancy stamp. It symbolizes a promise and partnership—the choice our islands made to join America while preserving our Chamorro and Carolinian heritage. It means honoring both parts of who I am—my rooted culture and my national identity. I think about how much courage it must’ve taken for our leaders to choose partnership without losing identity. They believed decades later, children like me could be proud islanders and proud Americans.
It feels surreal to say that I’m American, knowing that the mainland lies miles away, yet its anthem echoes through our school assemblies. America gives citizenship, protection, and dreams. Likewise, our island keeps us grounded in family, respect, and community values. On Rota, people greet each other by name, families gather, and traditions pass down through generations. Being part of America connects us with opportunities. We use U.S. currency, follow U.S. laws, and access American education. Many students from the CNMI pursue college or careers in the mainland. Ask any student about their future, and you’ll hear the same answer: military or college. Ask where, and the answer almost always points towards the mainland. America opens doors while we carry our culture with us.
When I think about what America means to me, I’m reminded of a line from Hamilton the musical: “America, you great unfinished symphony.” Even from a remote island, we are part of that symphony. Our voices and cultures add to that music. When I see the American flag raised beside our CNMI flag, blue skies, and fruit bats flying overhead, I see the promise made on Covenant Day. I see the symphony my islands help write. Above all, I see that no matter how small my island seems geographically, its place in America is not. It’s a voice in the continuous story. I am proud to be a voice.
As first place winners, Attina Louresse and Haani will participate in a once-in-a lifetime field trip experience this summer, visiting some of America’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks in honor of our nation’s important milestone.
As second place winners, Haryn and Lily will earn a cash award in recognition of their outstanding work.
Please join us in congratulating them on this remarkable achievement!
For the full list of 2026 America’s Field Trip awardees and a selection of winning submissions, visit america250.org/fieldtrip/awardees.
To check our press release and web page feature on these winners, visit america250cnmi.org.