Students pay tribute to 9/11 heroes

Posted September 10, 2018

Seventeen years after the tragic events of 9/11, we now live in a world where not a single one of our Ahwatukee school-age children can recall a time before that day. But a tradition among Kyrene schools ensures children learn to value and respect not only fallen heroes, but also those who still serve today, with special assemblies held on 9/11.

Three Kyrene elementary schools in Ahwatukee held Patriot Day assemblies, where students traded in their school colors to turn the campuses into seas of red white and blue.

Kyrene de los Lagos Dual Language Academy invited military and first responder parents to attend their celebration, at which students saluted the special guests with a special flag raising and patriotic songs. Military service members and first responders were also invited to a celebration on the Kyrene Monte Vista campus. The Lion’s Roar Choir treated guests to songs, and all students said a school-wide Pledge of Allegiance. 

“It is a day where, together, we pause with grateful hearts to pay tribute to those who keep us safe,” Kyrene Monte Vista Principal Suzanne Ramundo told students and guests.

On the Kyrene de la Estrella campus, students gathered outside for a school-wide Pledge and a moment of silence in observation of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

Kyrene students may not remember a time before 9/11, but by taking a moment to honor those who serve, they will not forget the sacrifices made that fateful day.