Remembering 9/11 from the Classroom

When the 9/11 tragedy happened 16 years ago, I was teaching and was placed in the awkward position of knowing what was going on, but we were told to keep it from the students since we didn't know whose parents were in those towers. I swore I would never to lie to the children I was teaching, which made it a horrible day as students, in fear, wanted to know what was happening but I couldn't say.
We had students and staff lose people that day.
I did this video two years ago when I was still teaching and wrote this poem the night of 9/11 when sitting in the house thank God my children were safe but sad knowing some kids weren't going to see their parents or loved ones again.

"A Note to the Students" By K. L. Belvin

911 remembered by a teacher who was teaching in Brooklyn, NY on that day.

As you watched the horror and asked your questions, I’ll try to find the answers to all you ask. 

When you're uncertain and scared, I‘ll be the calm and the rock for you to rest on.

When the world seems like it’s closing in on you, these helping hands are here to hold you. 

If you look around and no one’s there for you, I ‘m just a call away. 

If you’ve lost someone who loves you, I will share the love I have. 

If you think you want to quit, I’ll be the one who nudges you to keep going. 

When you say who cares, I’ll be the one who does. 

As you grow and become a man or woman, I'll be here smiling knowing I helped with your growth. 

To the students who lost their lives from this foolish act, there will always be a place for you in my heart so you’re never forgotten. 

To the students I haven’t met, I’ll remain this way in case our paths cross. 

At a time like this, it is you who help me remember why I became a teacher. 

One of the hardest jobs I will ever love. My prayers are with you. 

God bless those children who lost their lives and loved ones.

From "A Man In Transition" by K. L. Belvin