Smithtown Schools Mark 25th Anniversary Of 9/11 With Memorial Ceremonies

SMITHTOWN, NY — Students, faculty and administrators in the Smithtown Central School District gathered Friday to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and remember those who died that day and from 9/11-related illnesses.

At Smithtown High School East and High School West, students and faculty observed a period of quiet reflection between second and third periods.

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At 8:46 a.m. — the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001 — students quietly moved through the hallways in remembrance.

At High School East, Advanced Placement art students created 25 painted bricks bearing words including "community," "courage," "peace" and "heroism." The project was completed under the guidance of Leadership teacher Joseph Toth and art teacher Christopher Latto. A commemorative memorial rock was also placed at the site.

Social Studies and Leadership teacher Bill Coderre, who also serves as commander of American Legion Post 833, hosted a ceremony beside the school's "Survivor Tree," which was planted in memory of those who died.

Superintendent Mark Secaur reflected on the "level of unity" the country experienced following the attacks, describing Sept. 11 as "a day where all gave some and some gave all."

High School East Principal Paul McNeil also addressed students, while Leadership student Emme Frigillana spoke about the responsibility of younger generations to preserve the memory of those who died.

"We have a responsibility to remember the people whose lives were lost," Frigillana said.

The ceremony concluded with student Mariana Avellan singing the "Star-Spangled Banner."

At High School West, Leadership students Gianna Mucha, Camryn Ellick and Kate Tenety led a remembrance ceremony in the school's Memorial Garden.

The Smithtown Fire Department Color Guard presented the nation's colors to open the ceremony, followed by High School West student Allie Constantino performing the "Star-Spangled Banner."

Secaur and High School West Principal Jon Macaluso addressed students and faculty, and a commemorative wreath was placed in the Memorial Garden.

"September 11 is far more than a moment in our history books," Macaluso said. "It is a moment to remember each precious life lost, a tribute to extraordinary courage, and an opportunity to reflect on the enduring strength that binds us together as Americans."

District assistant principals and assistant superintendents also attended the ceremonies.