PYLUSD schools pay tribute to 9/11 with Patriot Day ceremonies, activities, and more

On the eighteenth anniversary of September 11, 2001, the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District (PYLUSD) joined the nation in remembering the thousands of Americans who lost their lives including the brave first responders.

On Wednesday, September 11, known as Patriot Day, PYLUSD facilities flew flags at half-staff and all schools held special ceremonies, activities, or moments of silence in remembrance.

PYLUSD will never forget.

Fairmont Elementary School
Parents, grandparents, and other community members who are active or retired military, fire, police, or other first-responder civil servants were honored in Fairmont Elementary School’s annual 9/11 remembrance assembly. Girl Scout Troop 1040 led the student body and community in a flag salute and singing of the National Anthem, and students read poetry in honor of esteemed service members.

Principal Cindy Rex shared the story about how residents of the tiny town of Gander, Newfoundland, provided shelter and essential needs to the thousands of air travelers who had been diverted to their remote town. Fairmont students pledged to create a legacy of kindness and compassion from the tragedy 18 years ago.

George Key School/Venture Academy
George Key School and Venture Academy hosted their annual Patriot Day remembrance on September 11. The students read a story that explained the significance of Patriot Day, performed a flag ceremony and the pledge of allegiance, and had a moment of silence to remember those who lost their lives on 9/11. All of the students also made cards and posters for local first responders who were in attendance including the Placentia Police Department.

Glenknoll Elementary School
Glenknoll Elementary remembered and honored September 11, 2001 in a special assembly. Boy Scout troop #851 started the ceremony by raising the American flag to half mast in honor of those who died and sacrificed their lives to save others on September 11. The school then participated in a moment of silence and a singing of the Star Spangled Banner. Local police officers were on hand to receive a special gift from first and second graders. Students also made thank you cards for local police and firefighters to thank them for their service, sacrifice, and faithfulness to keeping the community a safe place. It is not everyday that students are able to say thank you to first responders, so this day was extra special and memorable for Glenknoll Elementary School.

Lakeview Elementary School
During a school-wide flag salute on the morning of September 11, 2019, Lakeview Elementary School was greeted by a particularly beautiful morning sky. According to Principal Tamie Beeuwsaert, “it gave us all chills.”

 

Mabel Paine Elementary School
The morning of September 11, 2019, Mabel Paine Elementary School’s Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts performed a flag ceremony with a moment of silence in honor of Patriot Day.

Morse Elementary School
Morse Elementary School held a special school-wide assembly in honor of Patriot’s Day. On Wednesday, September 11, students, families, and community members gathered on the playground to partake in this special event.

The morning began with two Boy Scouts from Morse leading the school in the Pledge of Allegiance. Next, Principal Tonya started the event by sharing information about September 11, 2001. After, sixth-grade students read aloud poems honoring service members and those affected by September 11. After a moment of silence, participants sang patriotic songs.

At the conclusion of the assembly, service members in attendance were asked to join Principal Gordillo at the front with their families. Morse alumni, Richard Fujiwara (pictured below), came in uniform and stood with his nieces, as the students showed their thanks. It was a nice way to share the history of September 11 and honor those that protect us.

Woodsboro Elementary School
On September 11, in recognition of Patriot Day,Woodsboro Elementary School was led in the Pledge of Allegiance by the Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts. Woodsboro was proud to honor the country, all military branches, law enforcement, first responders, and any individual who served to protect the nation and gave the ultimate sacrifice.