Throughout the day on Sept. 9, students from the East Meadow Union Free School District took time to reflect on the events of Sept. 11, 2001. Each school recognized the 21st anniversary of the day with age-appropriate conversations and activities.
At Barnum Woods Elementary School, for example, kindergartners wore red, white and blue and colored an American flag. At the same time, first grade students discussed heroes and how they can show gratitude to those who act heroically in their own community. Meanwhile, fourth grade students created patriotic quilts to demonstrate their respect and appreciation for the country and to honor the heroic action of the nation’s heroes.
At Parkway Elementary School, students in Mrs. Wylie’s fifth grade class conducted a firefighter simulation stair climb to recognize the firefighters who climbed the stairs at the Twin Towers. After completing the challenge, students discussed why it was important for them to complete this symbolic experience in honor of those who rose to service on Sept. 11.
At East Meadow High School, the social studies department crafted lesson plans to teach students about the events of Sept. 11, 2001 and how it changed the world. During the day, teachers led students through the hallway, where the names of all of those who tragically passed were displayed on the walls. Students then visited the school’s 9/11 memorial, consisting of two trees to signify the Twin Towers, as well as a small piece of the World Trade Center. American flags were planted in the memorial and all staff were provided with American flag pins to stand in unity of remembrance.
At W.T. Clarke High School, students and teachers teamed up to create a 9/11 exhibition, which presented the history of Sept. 11, its origins, and its ongoing implications through the personal stories of those who witnessed and survived the attacks. This exhibition included archival photographs and images of artifacts from the 9/11 Museum’s permanent collection. It explored the consequences of terrorism on individual lives and communities at the local, national and international levels, and encouraged critical thinking about the legacies of 9/11.
Photo captions:
1: East Meadow High School social studies teacher Tim Steimer recounted his memories of Sept. 11, 2001 with his students in front of the school’s memorial.
2: Ms. Tomlin’s fifth grade class at Barnum Woods Elementary School discussed the events of Sept. 11, 2001.
3: Fourth grade students at Barnum Woods Elementary School created patriotic quilts to demonstrate their respect and appreciation for the country and to honor the heroic action of the nation’s heroes.
4: At Parkway Elementary School, students in Mrs. Wylie’s fifth grade class conducted a firefighter simulation stair climb to recognize the firefighters who climbed the stairs at the Twin Towers.
5: Students and teachers at W.T. Clarke High School teamed up to create a 9/11 exhibition, which presented the history of Sept. 11.
Photos courtesy of the East Meadow Union Free School District
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