SOCSD Hosts Tunnel to Towers 9/11 NEVER FORGET Mobile Exhibit

During New York State History Month (October) and always, SOCSD is committed to ensuring that today’s children never forget. The District this week was honored to host the Tunnel to Towers 9/11 NEVER FORGET Mobile Exhibit at Tappan Zee High School. The visit, made possible through a generous donation from the 9/11 Education Foundation, provided grades 9-12 with the privilege of touring the exhibit during social studies classes.

Upon entering the 1,100-square-foot space, students — guided by retired members of the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) and other first responders who were at Ground Zero on September 11, 2001 — had the opportunity to interact with history. Moving from room to room, they viewed artifacts and videos, listened to dispatch audio and bore witness to the retelling of countless stories of bravery and sacrifice, including that of Stephen Siller whom the Tunnel to Towers Foundation honors. In addition, our young citizens gained insight into how Stephen’s legacy lives on through the Foundation's other programs that support wounded veterans and their families.

The lessons learned and connections made extend far beyond the subject area. “The events of September 11 had a major impact on our world, national and local history,” said Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Rudy Arietta, Ed.D. “It was important for us to give our students the unique opportunity to [directly] speak with and learn from individuals who [not only] lived through [this time], but whose lives were forever changed [as a result]. The exhibit also addressed how everyday Americans and New Yorkers responded to these tragic events. [Key] lessons about service, community and patriotism [were also taken] from hearing these stories.”

Thank you for bringing this experience to our town!