09/12/2026
Stoneham Schools Remember September 11th
The Stoneham Public Schools community paused on September 11th to honor and remember the victims, heroes, and lasting impact of the events of September 11, 2001.
At Stoneham Central Middle School, students and staff observed a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m., marking the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. As part of the observance, students heard a message reflecting on the significance of the day:
“To every student sitting here today, 9/11 is a date from history books. None of you were alive when it happened, and you never experienced what life was like before that morning. But the world you walk through today, from how we travel and protect one another, to how we understand community, safety, and resilience, was reshaped by that single day. You live with its impact every day, even though you never knew a time before it.
Remembering 9/11 isn't just about looking at the past. It’s about honoring the thousands of innocent lives lost, recognizing the incredible bravery of the first responders who rushed in to help, and learning from how ordinary people chose compassion and unity in the face of tragedy.”
At Stoneham High School, students gathered for a commemorative assembly featuring an honor guard and reflections on the events of September 11 and the months that followed. Speakers included Stoneham Fire Chief Matt Grafton and social studies teachers Mr. Paul Bacigalupo and Mr. Kurt von Sneidern.
The Spartan Chorus performed Amazing Grace as the names and photographs of victims from Massachusetts were displayed. Lt. Dave Thistle and SRO Rich Pacini of the Stoneham Police Department and members of the Stoneham Fire Department were also in attendance.
The assembly concluded with SHS Principal Dr. Stephen Burnham asking students to stand and recognize the dedication and service of all first responders.
Both observances served as meaningful reminders of the lives lost, the courage displayed, and the importance of coming together as a community in times of tragedy.
