To commemorate Patriots’ Day last week, students across OLHMS participated in activities of remembrance and gratitude, including writing heartfelt letters to first responders. The 8th grade class had a particularly meaningful experience as they visited a special Memorial Museum set up in the library, where they engaged with powerful exhibits and reflections connected to September 11, 2001.
The centerpiece of the day was a poster exhibition from the 9/11 Memorial Museum in New York, which recounts the events of September 11, 2001. Told across 14 posters, the display combined archival photographs, images of recovered artifacts, and the personal stories of survivors and witnesses.
Students also took part in a gallery walk, where they viewed over 50 photographs of items recovered from the debris of the Twin Towers. Each image included captions that shared stories of courage, sacrifice, and remembrance.
In the MakerSpace, students created Pinwheels of Peace, which will remain on display through International Day of Peace on September 21st. They also watched a documentary from the 9/11 Memorial Museum, featuring first-person accounts of the attacks and recovery efforts.
As part of the schoolwide Patriots’ Day activities, students across all grades wrote letters of thanks to first responders. In addition, 8th graders decorated puzzle pieces to show that “each of us is a unique part of the fabric of our country.”
Student reflections highlighted the impact of the experience:
“Although many years have passed, the memories and impact of that day remain deeply significant and will never be forgotten.” – Kennedy K.
“Today, I gained a deeper understanding of the recovery efforts and the resilience of those who worked to rebuild after such a tragedy.” – Joshua K.
Teachers also noted the importance of this learning opportunity.
Heather McCarthy, Media Specialist, reflected:
“Teaching students about 9/11 is essential not only to honor the lives lost, but also to help students understand how resilience, unity, and compassion can emerge from tragedy. It ensures that the lessons of that day continue to shape future generations.”
8th-grade Social Studies teachers Mr. Mamollela and Mrs. Georgelos added:
“Participating in this event gives students an opportunity to connect history with humanity. It helps them move beyond facts and dates to truly understand the personal stories, sacrifices, and resilience tied to 9/11. By engaging with the memorial exhibit, students develop empathy, civic awareness, and a deeper appreciation for the importance of unity during times of crisis. These lessons extend far beyond the classroom and prepare them to be thoughtful, compassionate citizens.”
Through reflection, creation, and remembrance, OLHMS students not only honored Patriots’ Day but also gained meaningful insights into resilience, unity, and the enduring impact of September 11th.
.jpeg?mask=1)
