The sound of pounding footsteps echoed across the Eastport-South Manor football field Thursday morning as students and staff took part in a moving new tradition: the school’s first 9/11 Day of Service.
The event, initiated by Social Studies Teacher Thomas Hayes along with veterans and first responders on the school’s staff, centered on a Stair Climb Challenge that mirrored the 110 floors of the World Trade Center. Participants climbed 2,071 steps on the football field bleachers, honoring the memory of those lost on September 11, 2001.
“The metal bleachers thundered as dozens of students made their way up and down,” Hayes said. “Every step was a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of that day.”
Principal Sal Alaimo praised the effort as a powerful teaching moment. “Our students weren’t even born when 9/11 happened, but they feel the impact,” Alaimo said. “This event connects them to the history in a physical, meaningful way while teaching the importance of service and resilience.”
Students who completed the climb said it was both exhausting and humbling. Some carried small American flags and other patriotic symbols as they pushed through the final steps.
“This isn’t about competition,” Alaimo added. “It’s about remembrance, respect, and community. We want this to be the start of a tradition that takes place every year.”
Following the stair climb, classes were encouraged to take part in service projects throughout the day, from writing thank-you letters to local first responders to campus clean-up efforts. Organizers hope the Day of Service becomes an annual observance, expanding to include more community partners and opportunities for students to give back.
“As a school, we want to instill in our students the values of sacrifice, gratitude, and civic duty,” Alaimo said. “This Day of Service is one way to do that—and to make sure we never forget.”