20 Years Later, We Will Never Forget

Twenty years ago, on September 11, 2001, our world and New York City changed forever.

As a lifelong New Yorker, I personally know the fear and confusion that so many of us experienced that day. I was in my classroom teaching at the Bronx School for Law, Government, and Justice that morning as my family frantically tried to contact my father who worked at the World Trade Center. Meanwhile, my 3-year-old daughter was in pre-k in Harlem. It was a scary day, but together, we found strength in community during that difficult time. Because of all the first responders, I was one of the lucky ones—my dad made it home.

Recently, many former students, educators, and family members from P.S. 89, Greenwich Village Middle School, and other NYC school communities shared their experiences from that terrible and traumatizing day. Those stories, like countless others, remind us all of the profound humanity New Yorkers showed one another immediately following the events of that day and the tremendous resilience of our school communities.

We will never forget those who were lost on September 11. This City, its neighborhoods, and school communities serve as their legacy as we continue to overcome challenges with grace and strength.

Respectfully,

Meisha Porter
Chancellor
NYC Department of Education