As Port Jefferson Middle School students settled into the first week of school, they also took time to pause in honor of those affected by the events of September 11.

Students were encouraged to share their patriotism by wearing the colors of the American flag to recognize the courage of the first responders, the ordinary people who became heroes and the families of those who lost their lives on the day that is now part of our history.

“We want our students to understand the spirit of unity that occurred after that tragic day,” said teacher Monica Consalvo. “As they were not even born in 2001, it is important to know that the American vitality still prevails.”