In anticipation of Patriot Day, Sycamore Avenue Elementary School hosted guest speaker, Joan Mastropaolo, to educate students on the events of Sept. 11, 2001.

Joan is a volunteer at the 9/11 National Memorial and Museum, having given over 850 walking tours, and a volunteer with the Tunnel to Towers foundation. Tunnel to Towers was founded in tribute to New York Fire Department firefighter Stephen Siller who was killed on Sept. 11, 2001, during the attacks. The organization delivers mortgage-free homes to the families of the nation’s fallen first responders, builds specially adapted smart homes for injured veterans and first responders, educates the public about 9/11, helps in eradicating veteran homelessness and more.

Additionally, Joan is a victim and family advocate who spends time speaking to those who lost someone on during the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and helps to share their stories.

On Sept. 10, Joan educated Sycamore’s students on the origination of the World Trade Center and its history. She also shared her personal story and connection, noting that she lived only a block west of the World Trade Center and therefore, had a front row seat to the day’s events. She explained the day’s timeline to students and touched on stories of some of 9/11’s heroic individuals.

Throughout her presentation, Joan continuously cited the strength of the human spirit and emphasized the importance of remembering those who perished on Sept. 11, 2001. She encouraged students to do their own research to carry on their stories and keep their spirits alive.

Date Added: 9/10/2024