Throughout the district, each of the schools remembered and recognized Sept. 11 by engaging in different observances and activities.

Many schools started the day with a moment of silence prior to morning announcements. At Great Hollow Middle School, the morning announcements throughout the week included relevant character education messages. Students at Accompsett Middle School displayed flags outside the building and Principal Paul McNeil delivered a message over the public announcement system to all students. 

Smithtown Elementary School held a moment of silence and spoke about the importance of honoring the bravery of those who help others, such as firefighters and police. At Dogwood Elementary School, fifth-graders read an article, held age-appropriate class discussions and wrote essays and poems on why they are proud to be an American. Dogwood fourth-grade students created a project on their heroes. The outside walkways and lawn of the St. James Elementary School were filled with flags placed by students at the start of the school day on 9/11.

High School East lessons examined 9/11 from different viewpoints. Some teachers explored the history and impact of 9/11 since most students were not alive when the event happened. Psychology classes examined the toll traumatic events like 9/11 can have on a country and its people. Government classes assessed the impact 9/11 had on civil liberties in the United States. Some history courses explored the variety of changes that took place in the aftermath of the attacks. Furthermore, they examined the lessons that can be learned from 9/11. Some teachers chose to discuss how we could find hope in despair by choosing to be of service to the community in which they live.

Smithtown Central School District welcomed back students and staff on Sept. 7 to kick off the 2017-2018 school year. The first day of school was bustling with activity. Check out our slideshow to see some first day of school highlights.