SEPT. 2008—Middletown City Schools commemorated the seventh anniversary of 9/11 on Thursday with district-wide moments of silence, in memory of those lost in the attacks, and a variety of activities centered around Patriot Day as the memories of 9/11 remain vivid for our students, staff, teachers, and community.

At Twin Towers Middle School, students in Amanda Mita's music class learned all about our country's national anthem, The Star- Spangled Banner. Students discussed its origin, lyrics, and meaning as part of their lesson.

"Learning the history of our national anthem enhances its meaning for students and analyzing it line by line gives them a greater understanding of a song that they have literally grown up with," Mita said. "Teaching it on Patriot Day is a way for students to really connect with the song's history and development and appreciate its significance to our country." 

At Truman Moon Primary Center and Mechanicstown Elementary School students and staff dressed in red, white, and blue in honor of our country and its heroes.  Heroes, who they are and what it takes to be one, was the theme at both schools on Thursday.

"It is important that we never forget the tragic events of 9/11," said Mechanicstown Principal Susan Short. "Rather than focusing on fear, we make every attempt to use Patriot Day as a time to reflect on who our heroes are and what it means to be an American. "

Other schools around our district including Maple Hill and Chorley Elementary Schools, Monhagen Middle School along with the high school commemorated 9/11 during morning announcements, with the Pledge of Allegiance and singing of the National Anthem. 9/11 discussions and individual classroom activities will take place throughout the day.