Honoring the heroes of September 11

Smithtown Central School District students, faculty and administrators came together Friday to remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001, honor those who later died from 9/11-related illnesses, and pay tribute to the courage and selflessness of first responders and all who stepped forward in the aftermath.

At High School East and High School West, students and faculty participated in a silent walk through the hallways at 8:46 a.m., the exact time the first plane struck the World Trade Center’s North Tower.

At East, AP Art students, under the guidance of Joseph Toth and Christopher Latto, created 25 painted bricks featuring words such as community, courage, peace and heroism, along with a commemorative memorial rock. Bill Coderre, Social Studies and Leadership teacher and American Legion Post 833 Commander, hosted a ceremony beside the school’s Survivor Tree.

Superintendent Mark Secaur, Principal Paul McNeil and Leadership student Emme Frigillana shared reflections, with Frigillana reminding students, “We have a responsibility to remember the people whose lives were lost.” Student Mariana Avellan performed the Star-Spangled Banner.

At West, Leadership students Gianna Mucha, Camryn Ellick and Kate Tenety led a ceremony in the Memorial Garden, featuring the Smithtown Fire Department Color Guard and a beautiful rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner by Allie Constantino. Superintendent Secaur and Principal Jon Macaluso addressed students and faculty, and a commemorative wreath was placed in the garden.

Assistant principals and Assistant Superintendents were also in attendance at the ceremonies.

The District thanks SCSD Director of Social Studies Charles Benvenuto and Daniela McKee of High School West for helping organize these meaningful commemorations, as well as all of our administrators, staff and students who came together to remember.