HS Commemorates the 20th Anniversary of 9-11
On September 10, 2021, Principal Eric Contreras along with Dr. Dolan and Assistant Principals Dr. Kevin Kurrus and Dr. Maram Mabrouk led a moving ceremony commemorating the 20th anniversary of September 11, 2001. Thank you to the community members who attended including the many high school musicians that performed and all those who spoke at this memorable event.
To begin the ceremony, Principal Contreras welcomed everyone in the audience and spoke about the importance of this historic day. He then introduced Trustee Richard Galati and retired mathematics teacher Dr. Robert Gerver who unveiled a new plaque that will accompany the metal column that was once part of the Twin Towers. Other speakers included Superintendent Dr. Tom Dolan, Assemblyman Montesano (who was a BOE Trustee during 9/11/01), Dr. Kevin Kurrus, Dr. Maram Mabrouk, Board of Education President David Ludmar, and Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Dr. Chris Zublionis.
During the ceremony, the flag was lowered to half-staff and high school musicians and vocalists performed Amazing Grace and accompanied student Ella Blumenthal in the Star Spangled Banner. The vocalists included Mia Crocco, John Drew, Liam Nacinovich, John Rasizzi, Ryaan Sabooni, Erin Schoenhofen, Isabella Visintainer, Ian Zhan, and Norimi Truskinovsky. The musicians included Eileen Zhao, Rebekah Lando, Julia McLellan, Catherine Castelli, Carly Accolla, Julia Capitelli, Abigal Schwab, Ella Blumenthal, Lily Perrotta, Olivia Lamond, James Vanchieri, Hannah Ikawa, Katie Ditrano, Matthew Rodriguez, John Pourakis, Michael McMahon, and Ruben Shonik.
Principal Contreras invited up to the podium Nehir Tan, Ella Blumenthal, and John Drew to participate in student readings. Later he went inside and tolled the Long Island Studies School House bell 20 times for each commemorative year. The ceremony ended with the poignant playing of taps by our students.
During the day, moments of silence were observed throughout the North Shore Schools to remember all those we lost during 9/11. Thank you again to all those who attended this memorable ceremony. We will never forget.
Article and photos by Shelly Newman
