Patriot's Day

Patriot’s Day is observed on September 11th. Since this falls on a Sunday, we’re recognizing it today, September 9th. Patriot’s Day was signed into law on December 18, 2001 as a day to remember those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks on our country. It’s been 10 years, but I vividly remember what I was doing at the fateful moment I learned of the attacks. This is the day I learned what terror really meant. Former President Bush described the attacks as, “Evil, despicable acts of terror.”

In recognition of Patriot’s Day, our school will endeavor to create a human flag. This event will take the coordinated efforts of everyone in the school. It may take an entire period, but the learning experience for our students, none of whom remember this tragic day, will be one they’ll remember forever. I’m proud of the way in which the faculty and staff have embraced this learning opportunity. A main tenet of education is to produce a citizenry which can self-govern. If there was to be a silver lining in this dark cloud of our American History, it would be the ideals of national pride. Those very ideals were the target of the 9/11 attack on our country. It was an attack on our freedom – which can only exist if education continues with its production of a self-governing citizenry.

I found it interesting that September 11th is also the National Day of Service and Remembrance, calling upon Americans to make an enduring commitment to serve their community and our nation. Both the National Day of Service and Remembrance and Patriot’s Day are intimately connected and it is most appropriate to celebrate our nationalism with a commitment to serve. President Kennedy’s inaugural words from 1961 still ring true, “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country”.

So, while we carry on with our most noble of professions, I continue to ask more from you. An additional duty, extra class, or simply your understanding – our task to prepare the next generation of citizens is daunting. I also ask for you to look towards the community for opportunities to volunteer, to become involved, and to make a difference. To emphasize this need, think about your own personal mentors. I imagine that they were active in the classroom, community, and various organizations.

Be proud. Fly the red, white, and blue. Remember the sacrifice of others. Make a commitment to serve.