Mrs. Skyler’s first graders recently took a fun and surprising journey into history by learning about the story of doughnuts! While enjoying this tasty topic, students discovered how food can connect to important moments in our country’s past. We learned about the inspiring “Doughnut Dollies,” also known as the Salvation Army Doughnut Girls, who served fresh doughnuts to soldiers during World War I and World War II. These brave women traveled close to the front lines to bring comfort, kindness, and a small taste of home to American troops.
Students were excited to learn that a famous doughnut company has roots right here in our home state. The founder of Krispy Kreme, Vernon Rudolph, was from Kentucky. Learning this local connection helped students see how people from our own state have played a role in shaping American culture and business.
This lesson also connected to our learning about America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. As we look toward celebrating the United States Semiquincentennial in 2026, students are discovering how everyday things—like doughnuts—can tell stories about courage, community, and innovation throughout our nation’s history. My class loved seeing how even a sweet treat can help us better understand the people and events that helped shape America!
Skyler Bradley
Brodhead Elementary School
Rockcastle County Schools
1st Grade
