We Remember

Most Americans remember exactly where they were and the unfolding of events on that clear September morning 11 years ago.  Living in the DC metropolitan area, the impact of the day could not be ignored as the airspace where passenger jets flew by every day without much notice on my part were replaced by fighter jets screaming through the sky.  My memories of the day include an overwhelming feeling of relief as my husband and I were able to confirm the safety of friends who worked in the NY financial district within hours, despite the overloading of cellular circuits and the chaos that ensued in the immediate aftermath.  It would be several days before news of friends of friends and a distant cousin who perished in the towers would reach us and the senseless loss of loved ones is one that I am compelled to revisit with each anniversary.

In the eleven years that have passed, I have been blessed with 3 wonderful children, including my 10 year old who was old enough to see news reports last year and have discussions with me about the events of the day and the death of Bin Laden in May 2011.  For most of the students in today’s classrooms, 9/11 is something they have heard about, but fortunately, have not been witness to in their lifetimes.

You can promote awareness and discussion in the classroom with Discovery Education services that include several thought-provoking videos, writing prompts and images from 9/11.  The September 11th Content Collection has compiled many of these resources into a single area to help students better understand this defining moment in American history.  Through discussion and activities, younger students learn about the bravery and selflessness of first responders and community helpers, while older students consider the impact these tragic events have had on global policies as well as day-to-day life in America.  View archives of live panel discussions with members of the community who were personally affected.

We remember, and we share because that is the responsibility, as educators, we must take up for the next generation.



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