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Einstein Middle School students urge council to explore a new Shoreline city flag
Summary
Students from Einstein Middle School presented four flag designs and urged the Shoreline City Council to launch a community‑led flag redesign process; the teacher and councilors favored a public process informed by students and community input.
A group of Einstein Middle School students presented four original flag designs to the Shoreline City Council on May 18 and asked the council to formally explore a community‑driven redesign of the city flag.
Brent Holland, an art teacher at Einstein Middle School, introduced the students and said the school’s project asked whether Shoreline has a flag and whether it represents residents. ‘‘A flag is the most public piece of art that the city owns,’’ Holland told the council, arguing a well‑designed flag can foster civic pride and identity.
Four students took turns explaining their entries. Amelia said her design highlights Shoreline’s connection to water and honors local Native tribes; Alex Pudick’s flag uses a 14‑point star to represent the city’s neighborhoods and waterfronts; Cooper emphasized parks and the region’s indigenous peoples; Simon included mountains and a six‑pointed motif representing local waterways. Each student described the symbolism and why it, in their view, represents Shoreline.
Councilors responded positively and recommended a broader community process. Council member Roberts praised the designs as ‘‘everything that good flag design should be’’ and recommended a community‑wide process so the final flag represents the whole city. Council member Adamasu supported a student‑led element paired with staff oversight. Council member Scully noted a potential recusal if a future decision directly affected a council member’s family and asked staff to note that conflict.
Holland asked the council to consider several possible next steps: directing staff to study options, forming a small work group, or opening a public design process that would include student and community voices.
The presentation concluded without a formal council vote; councilors said they would consider how to move forward with a community engagement plan and next steps for staff.
The flag discussion followed public comment and the consent calendar and preceded other study items on the agenda.
