STEM students remember 911, honor heroes

McKinley STEM Academy students commemorated 9/11 with a ceremony on September 10, honoring local first responders and community leaders. The event featured the Steubenville High School Big Red Marching Band and included student readings and poetry. Organized by third-grade teacher Amy Bailey, this observance has been held annually since 2019, with family members participating for the first time this year. Students created around 100 thank-you cards and patriotic windsocks, fostering a spirit of gratitude. Attendees were encouraged to wear red, white, and blue, reinforcing the day’s patriotic theme.

Local officials, including Mayor Jerry Barilla and City Manager Jim Mavromatis, attended and shared messages with the community. Bailey noted the importance of teaching children about the day that shaped modern history and recognizing the heroes in their midst. The ceremony aimed to instill appreciation for the sacrifices made by first responders and the significance of community service.