Garden City Public Schools

On Sept. 11, Garden City Schools participated in lessons and activities to honor and remember the events of Sept. 11, 2001. Students engaged in age-appropriate discussions to better understand the significance of the day and the importance of remembering those lost, as well as the courage shown by first responders and everyday heroes.

At Garden City Middle School, the Garden City Police Department provided American flags for every student to place outside the building. In small groups throughout the day, students went outside with their social studies classes to reflect on the events of 9/11 and the bravery of the first responders. After a morning moment of silence, students quietly placed the flags across the front of the school as acts of respect and remembrance.

“Watching the students quietly place the American flags in front of the building is evidence of the respect that the entire school community has for this day as we recognize 9/11,” said Mr. Ed Escobar, interim principal of Garden City Middle School. “We need to remember 9/11 not only for its sorrow but also for the strength and solidarity it inspired and move forward with determination to create a safe and peaceful world.”

At Garden City High School, classes took turns going outside to the school’s 9/11 memorial, which consists of a piece of the twin towers, flags and benches and is dedicated to those who lost their lives on that day. Students and teachers discussed the significance of the day before going back inside to continue the conversations.

At the elementary level, Stratford School’s second grade team read “The Fireboat” with their students, a story highlighting the heroes and first responders of 9/11. Afterward, students colored pictures of first responders and flags and wrote descriptive words such as “brave” and “strong,” helping them build vocabulary while reflecting on the qualities of community helpers.

At Hemlock School, primary students created flags and crafts describing what a hero means to them. Students also dressed in red, white and blue to honor the spirit of unity and patriotism.

Together, these activities gave students a meaningful way to honor the memory of Sept. 11 while also highlighting the importance of courage, service and unity − values that continue to guide and inspire the Garden City school community today.