Hendrick Hudson Elementary Schools Pay Tribute with Annual Ceremonies

During the week of 9/11, our elementary schools in the Hendrick Hudson School District acknowledge this Remembrance Day by paying tribute to first responders and community helpers. This year was no different with Buchanan-Verplanck, Frank G. Lindsey and Furnace Woods Elementary schools all holding Day of Service and Flag-Raising ceremonies in recent days.

These events provided the district’s elementary school children an opportunity to thank those in the community who help keep all of our students safe. The honorees in attendance included members of local fire and police departments, former service members and more.

At Furnace Woods, Principal Josh Cohen described for students what the words “patriot” and “champion” mean, using both to describe the guests.

“Our champions work hard every day to save lives, help others and keep people safe using all of their skills,” Mr. Cohen said. “All of us at Furnace Woods and Hendrick Hudson appreciate you.”

At all three schools, students showed their appreciation in various ways. They recited the Pledge of Allegiance and delivered hand-drawn pictures and messages to first responders in attendance. Some even read messages aloud on the microphone to thank the special visitors.

Students also helped execute flag-raisings. At Furnace Woods, two military veterans on staff, custodian Scott Gilbert and safety/security officer Rob Riley, assisted with the ceremony.

“When they are raising the flag, it is customary for all of us to put our hands on our hearts as a sign of respect,” Mr. Cohen said.

Students at the schools also performed patriotic songs for their guests, including “You’re a Grand Old Flag” during the ceremony at Buchanan-Verplanck.

The events were attended by Superintendent of Schools Michael A. Tromblee, along with several Board of Education trustees.

“Life continues in our schools with meetings, Back-to-School Nights and athletic contests in field hockey, volleyball, tennis and soccer,” Mr. Tromblee said Thursday. “These daily rhythms do not diminish the tragedy of that day. Rather, our ability to move forward as a community of learning and care is, in itself, another way of honoring the lives lost and the heroism witnessed.”