Students Run for Heroes of 9/11

The children of Sunnyside Elementary also ran in memory of those lost in the 9/11 terrorist attacks

The annual “jog-a-thon” at a Bonita school has been a fundraiser for 17 years, helping the school fund library books and computer lab equipment.

However on this 12th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the children of Sunnyside Elementary also ran in memory of those lost.

“Most of the students here at this elementary school weren’t even born until after 9/11,” teacher Robynn Higginson said.

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Like many "a-thons", K-6 students raised money by getting sponsors and then running laps around the school's track.

In recent years, the school decided to combine the event with the memorial for 9/11 as a way of incorporating the lessons learned from that tragic day.

Some heroes from the military and local police departments started off the event by walking a lap with the children.

“We’re remembering not only the people who have fallen but also the people who are our heroes and our everyday heroes,” Higginson added.

Kelly Young, President of the Sunnyside Elementary School Parents’ Club said the event is more than simply spending time outside and having fun with their friends.

“It’s a day that they need to understand is day of remembrance and a day of celebration for those people who acted heroically on that day,” Kelly Young said.

Commander Jay Young, a parent of two Sunnyside students, said he thinks the children will take away a sense of respect for those who serve.

“It’s important that they understand why we have these events on Sept. 11th, each anniversary and understand what happened 12 years ago,” Young said.

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