Garden City commemorates Patriot Day

The Garden City Public Schools recognize the devastating impact that the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks had on the community and the entire nation. In commemoration of Patriot Day, which acknowledges this date’s place in history each year, a variety of activities and tributes honored the lives that were lost and the heroism that was demonstrated by first responders and all those who helped.

Each building held a moment of silence to remember the individuals and families who were directly impacted. Many students and staff members wore red, white and blue, and teachers read books that describe the events of September 11 in age-appropriate ways. 

Hemlock students heard the story Fireboat by Maira Kalman and learned about ways that people can help the world. Some classes wrote thank you notes and drew pictures to give to helpers, and all students created their own patriotic pinwheels that they proudly displayed outside. Students from Homestead and Locust schools wrote powerful messages of thanks to the Garden City Police Department, the Garden City Fire Department, health care workers at Winthrop Hospital, Veterans and nurses. Homestead classes also created paper American Flags that were displayed on classroom windows, and Locust students and staff members wore red as a symbol of appreciation for those who keep them safe.

Stratford Avenue School held grade-level read-alouds that featured books about the day and conveyed the importance of helping others. Stewart School shared morning Words of Wisdom announcements that focused on heroes. Garden City Middle School presented a thoughtful morning announcement, and many teachers made connections between their subject areas and the events of September 11.

Garden City High School also made a statement during morning announcements and installed additional flags around the building’s September 11 memorial on Rockaway Avenue. Students are selling commemorative pins at their home football game and will donate funds to a 9/11 related charity. 

These are just some of the many activities and lessons that were held throughout the district to remember September 11, 2001 and honor Patriot Day.

 

Photo Captions:

Locust 1 & 2: Locust students displayed the cards that they made for Veterans. 

Hemlock 1 & 2: Students at Hemlock assembled and waved their Patriotic Pinwheels on Patriot Day. 

Homestead 1 & 2: Students at Homestead wrote letters and made flags in honor of Patriot Day. 

Cards: Cards that students made for healthcare workers are displayed at Winthrop Hospital to greet employees as they arrive at work each day. 

 

Photos courtesy of Garden City Public Schools