Number of Participants: 300
Hours Donated: 1
Value of Time Served: $10,437
Event Type: Veterans & Military Families
Activity: Schools
Date: September 11, 2025
Location:
Freeport
NY, USA
About:
On Sept. 11, Freeport Public Schools’ New Visions Elementary hosted its annual Heroes Day, welcoming the Freeport Fire Department and the Freeport Police Department to the school to honor and pay tribute to the bravery of the victims of the 2001 attacks.
With students and staff dressed in red, white and blue to symbolize unity and remembrance, the fourth grade color guard opened the ceremony with the Pledge of Allegiance and the national anthem.
Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. Alice Kane reflected on the significance of observing the day. “As we remember those we lost and honor the heroes who went above and beyond 24 years ago, I want to remind you that you can be like the heroes from Sept. 11,” she said. “Have an open heart and find ways to help others and share goodness. By being an everyday hero you can bring happiness to others, and more kindness and courage to the world. Even small acts of kindness like a smile or offering a helping hand are heroic and can make a difference to someone. Everyone has the power to be a hero.”
During the program, Malia Thelemaque recited the poem “Heroes,” followed by a moment of silence and time for reflection with the song “If You’re Out There” by John Legend.
“Today we wear red, white and blue to symbolize unity and peace for all races throughout our country. This moment is dedicated to you, our heroes. We thank you for the danger you faced on Sept. 11 and the sacrifices you continue to make to answer our calls,” said New Visions Principal Jessica Romero. “While we may never fully repay you for your selflessness, we can honor you by striving to be leaders who love and respect ourselves, each other and our nation. Together, you help us inspire change in our world.”
New Visions’ annual day of remembrance offers students and staff an opportunity to reflect on the importance of unity and service to others.
Photo captions:
- The New Visions Elementary School color guard presented the colors and lead the Pledge of Allegiance and national anthem at the school’s annual 9/11 Heroes Day ceremony. From left, Iselis Adames, Caiden Williams, Destiny Kirk, Sebastian Orozco, Kamila Rivera and Malia Thelemaque.
- New Visions students and staff gathered outside for the annual Sept. 11 ceremony.
- Members of the Freeport Fire Department and Police Department salute the flag at the New Visions Elementary 9/11 Heroes Day ceremony.
- From left, Freeport Public Schools Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Anthony Murray, Executive Director for Personnel Dr. Marie Gabaton-Swift, Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. Alice Kane, members of the Freeport Fire Department and New Visions Elementary School Principal Jessica Romero on Sept. 11, 2025.
Photos courtesy of Freeport Public Schools
