On Nov. 6, 119 Bethpage High School seniors embarked on a powerful educational journey to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum in New York City, thanks to the generous sponsorship of the Gary Sinise Foundation. The trip, organized by social studies teacher Mr. Rob Verdi, offered students a profound opportunity to connect with one of the most significant events in modern American history.
The day-long experience included guided tours of the memorial and museum, where students explored exhibits documenting the events of Sept. 11, 2001, and the far-reaching aftermath that continues to shape our world today. The educational program featured a series of presentations designed to help young people understand not only what happened that day, but also the courage and sacrifice that followed.
A highlight of the visit came when students heard directly from a military veteran and a first responder who shared their personal experiences from that tragic day and its aftermath. The interactive question-and-answer session allowed students to engage meaningfully with these heroes, asking questions and gaining firsthand perspectives that no textbook could provide.
The Gary Sinise Foundation, established by acclaimed actor Gary Sinise, has made it their mission to honor and serve U.S. military veterans, first responders, their families and the families of fallen heroes. The nonprofit organization demonstrates its commitment through various programs, including building specially adapted smart homes for severely wounded service members, providing financial assistance and mental wellness support and organizing meaningful educational trips like the one Bethpage students experienced.
By sponsoring this visit, the foundation ensured that a new generation could learn about 9/11's impact and understand the ongoing dedication of those who serve and protect our communities.
For Mr. Verdi, organizing this trip held special significance. He was teaching at Bethpage High School on Sept. 11, 2001, and witnessed firsthand how the attacks affected his students, colleagues and community. The profound impact of that day compelled him to serve his country in a direct way – he joined the Army Reserve in response to the tragic events.
Mr. Verdi's decision to serve led him to active-duty deployment overseas, where he served in Kuwait and Iraq, eventually working as a prison guard. His personal journey from classroom teacher to soldier and back to educator gives him a unique perspective on the importance of helping students understand 9/11's lasting legacy.
Educational experiences like this one serve a vital purpose: they ensure that students who were born after Sept. 11, 2001, develop a deep understanding of the day that changed America. By visiting the memorial, hearing from those who lived through it, and learning about the courage displayed by first responders and service members, these seniors gained insights that will stay with them throughout their lives.
The Bethpage community is grateful to the Gary Sinise Foundation for making this powerful educational opportunity possible, and to Mr. Verdi for his dedication both to his students and to his country.
