Sycamore Avenue Elementary commemorates Patriot Day

Across the Connetquot Central School District, students, faculty and staff came together on Sept. 11 to honor the lives lost in the tragic events of 2001 and to educate students about the lasting significance of Patriot Day.

In a powerful display of patriotism and remembrance, students throughout the district dressed in red, white and blue and participated in the symbolic act of planting American flags outside their buildings, creating a sea of stars and stripes to honor those who were lost.

On Sept. 9, at Sycamore Avenue Elementary, FDNY Battalion Chief Robert Meuser visited the school to speak with third through fifth grade students. His presentation highlighted the courage of first responders and provided students with a deeper understanding of the events of Sept. 11, 2001.

Younger students in kindergarten through second grade read “Branches of Hope,” a story centered around a tree found at Ground Zero after the 9/11 attacks. The story speaks to the tree’s resilience and regrowth, symbolizing the healing and hope of New York City and the nation. 

Following the reading, students created an art project by tracing their handprints on red, white and blue paper. These handprints were arranged to form an American flag displayed proudly within the school.

Then, on Sept. 11, Sycamore Avenue held a moving outdoor tribute, as students gathered on the front lawn of the school to plant individual American flags each representing someone special remembered by the students and their families. The ceremony concluded with a performance of “God Bless America” by the fifth grade chorus, uniting the school community in song and solemn reflection.

Photo captions: 

1: FDNY Battalion Chief Robert Meuser visited Sycamore Avenue Elementary to deliver a presentation on the events of Sept. 11, 2001.  

2: Edward J. Bosti Elementary students planted flags in front of their school in honor of Patriot Day. 

3: Dressed in red, white and blue, Sycamore Avenue Elementary students and staff stood among the dozens of American flags placed by students in honor of those lost on Sept. 11, 2001. 

4: The Bohemia Fire Department visited Sycamore Avenue Elementary on Patriot Day for a special remembrance ceremony. 

Photos courtesy of Hauppauge School District