Armstrong students reflect on September 11, 2001

Submitted by Armstrong Elementary

A paper tree outside Armstrong Elementary’s main office is filled with leaves bearing students’ reflections after learning about Sept. 11, 2001. Photo contributed by AES

Twenty-five years after September 11, 2001, Armstrong Elementary School students took time to remember and reflect on the events and their lasting impact on the country and local communities.

As part of the school’s remembrance activities, every class read "This Very Tree" by Sean Rubin. The book was adapted for kindergarten students to make the story and discussion age-appropriate.

Following the reading, students were invited to reflect on the story and what they had learned. Each student was asked to write a word or a few words describing how the book made them feel or how they felt learning about the tragedy.

Those reflections became part of a special display in the school lobby. Students wrote their words on leaves and placed them on a tree, creating a growing collection of thoughts and feelings shared by the Armstrong Elementary community.

The words reflected the students’ thoughtful responses to a difficult moment in history. Throughout the activity, students were respectful and attentive as they listened, reflected and considered the importance of remembering.

The remembrance tree now stands in the school lobby as a visual reminder not only of the events of 2001, but also of the compassion, empathy and thoughtfulness Armstrong students showed as they learned about history and reflected together.