Dear Channahon 17 Families,

For this Superintendent Minute, we pause to reflect on the tragic events of September 11, 2001. As our nation collectively vowed on that fateful day, we will continue to remember the 2,977 people who lost their lives in the unspeakable terrorist attacks against our nation. We remember the passengers and crews aboard the four planes, the people working in and around the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, and the firefighters, police officers, emergency responders, and other heroes who ran toward danger to help others.

Channahon 17 will take time to remember September 11 in an appropriate way at each of our schools. We will also take the opportunity to recognize the incredible qualities that emerged in the aftermath of the attacks: courage, compassion, sacrifice, unity, and a willingness to help one another. These are qualities we want our students to understand and emulate, not only during a crisis, but in their everyday lives.

As educators and families, we can help our children remember and learn from September 11 by:

• Teaching students about the events of September 11 in an age-appropriate and thoughtful way.

• Honoring the lives of those who were lost and recognizing the bravery of those who responded.

• Helping students understand the importance of service to others.

• Showing gratitude for the American ideals of freedom and liberty.

This week, as we pause to remember the lives lost on September 11, we honor not only their memory, but also the countless others whose lives have been taken or forever changed by acts of violence. As educators, we have the privilege and responsibility of teaching the next generation the values we hope define us as Americans: showing respect and compassion for one another, practicing civility even when we disagree, being courageous in the face of fear, and cherishing the freedom that has shaped our nation for 250 years.

We are grateful that you allow us to partner with you in teaching our children how to live with love and respect for their fellow human beings. May we never forget.

Sincerely,

Dr. Nicholas Henkle