Alpine School District has joined the Major Brent Taylor Foundation to support the annual 9/11 Project, from September 10th to 13th at the Spanish Fork Fairgrounds. This free event brings our community together to honor the heroes of September 11, 2001, and to teach younger generations about its lasting impact.
“One of the most exciting aspects of this year's project is how it connects directly with what students are learning in school,” said Dr. Vallen Thomas, Director of Education Services.
The main event of the 9/11 Project is an immersive “traveling” museum. The interactive experience uses powerful visuals, real artifacts, and personal stories to walk visitors through the events of that tragic day. It helps those who lived through it remember, and it helps those who weren't yet born understand the bravery and patriotism that emerged afterward.
Alpine School District supports this project, with many schools planning field trips to the immersive museum exhibit.
The event is designed with school-age children in mind, especially those in 5th, 8th, and 11th grades, because the content aligns with Utah social studies curriculum.
“Experiences like this are powerful learning opportunities that allow students to experience history in a unique and interactive way,” said Thomas.
In addition to the temporary museum, the project offers many other ways for the community to get involved. A Community Resource Fair gives visitors opportunities to learn about local service organizations and find volunteer opportunities. Veterans, firefighters, police officers, and other emergency personnel will be on hand to share their experiences.
The "Touch-a-Truck" exhibit is a favorite for families. Kids and adults can explore fire engines, police cars, military vehicles, and other emergency equipment. Other features are a Career Fair, and remembrance 5K.
Dr. Rich Stowell, Director of Communications, emphasized that this project is about more than just remembering a tragedy.
“It is about honoring the courage of those who sacrificed and inspiring the next generation to lead lives of service and purpose," he said.
“We hope that as many families as possible will visit the 9/11 museum to remember the positive values that brought us together as a community in the aftermath of tragedy,” said Stowell. “The 9/11 Project is a powerful reminder of unity, service, and the enduring strength of our community.”
For more information, visit https://majorbrenttaylor.com/9-11-project/.