Mansfield ISD Magazine Fall 2017 | Page 25

Never Forget: Mansfield ISD Observes Patriot Day O n Sept. 11, entities from across the nation come together to remember the largest act of terrorism on U.S. soil. The day of remembrance is known as Patriot Day. This year marked the 16th anniversary of hijackers deliberately flying planes into the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. and the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York. Nearly 3,000 people died in the attacks. While those lost lives are mourned, the nation also honors the bravery of the service members and first responders who remain on the front lines of the fight against terrorism. Several Mansfield ISD campuses remembered the day be taking part in assemblies, moments of silence, history lessons and acts of service. Students and staff at Roberta Tipps Elementary School gave out free water and Gatorade to local first responders. Law enforcement personnel, first responders and veterans were invited to a 9/11 remembrance ceremony at Willie Brown Elementary School. Flags were also flown at half- staff as a mark of respect. N ational Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to reflect upon and recognize the contributions made by Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States while also celebrating their culture. Hispanic Heritage Month begins each year on Sept. 15, the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico, Chile and Belize celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16, Sept. 18 and Sept. 21 respectively. The 30-day period also falls within Día de la Raza (Day of the Race) on Oct. 12, which is a celebration of Hispanic traditions and cultural heritage in many Latin American countries. Mansfield ISD campuses celebrated the impact of Hispanic and Latino cultures through assemblies, lessons, morning announcements and projects. The national observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week and later expanded to a month-long celebration in 1988. Mansfield School & Family 23