story9332.xml

story9332.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2003-06-03

On September 11, 2001 I was driving to my job as a 5th grade teacher in school district 131 in Aurora, IL. On the way to work I heard of the first plane crashing into the WTC, however, at the point, it was being reported as maybe a small private craft, and an accident. Later in the morning while my students were in pe, I heard of the second crash, and it was on film, it was then obvious that this was a deliberate attack by someone. All through the day it was sheer torture.. I have never felt such fear as an American.. I was afraid.. I wanted to be home with my husband and with my children.. At lunch time all the teachers went out for lunch to a place with a television so we could get all the information. It was decided that we should not mention the situation to our students until almost dismissal time. We have many children who go home to an empty house at the end of the day.. so we were told to tell them to not be afraid.. That was the most difficult task I have ever been given,, I was afraid very afraid, and I could hardly hold back tears when trying to assure my students... I do not know anyone that died in September 11, however the people that did are the people of us all.. I feel the loss of them everyday,, I remember , and I will never forget