Thursday, October 1, 2026
East Rockaway elementary school students marked the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks with remembrance ceremonies at Centre Avenue and Rhame Avenue elementary schools.
Centre Avenue students gathered around the school’s flagpole on Sept. 11 for a morning ceremony led by Principal Calia Kelly, who encouraged students to honor the day by leading with love and showing kindness to others.
Sixth-grade representatives shared acts of kindness they planned to carry out in recognition of the anniversary. Students, many dressed in red, white and blue, also carried handmade pennants with messages honoring those who died in the attacks.
Local veterans joined students and staff for the ceremony, along with district administrators and East Rockaway Mayor Gordon Fox.
Later that day, Rhame Avenue students gathered on the school field for their own observance. Continuing a tradition that began three years ago, students formed a large circle and held hands as a symbol of strength and community.
Inside the circle, students placed a paper chain they created, with each link decorated with a tribute. Interim Principal Neil Lederer spoke about the significance of Sept. 11, remembering those who died and recognizing the first responders and others who helped in the aftermath of the attacks.
The Rhame Avenue ceremony concluded with the national anthem and cheers from students.
The two observances gave East Rockaway students an opportunity to learn about Sept. 11 while honoring its victims through messages of remembrance, kindness and community.
