River Trails Middle School celebrates Hero Night

Eighth grade students at River Trails Middle School read their self-written poems about personal heroes Wednesday evening in front of fellow students, family and community members as part of the school's annual Hero Night.

Hero Night was created by River Trails Middle School teachers after the September 11 terrorist attacks to give students an opportunity to identify heroes in their lives. The night also included an interactive presentation from author and motivational speaker Victor Pacini. Earlier, Pacini also participated in Hero Day, an event that involves the entire eighth grade student body.

"Eighth grade is a time for growth and reflection," teacher and event organizer Georgette Zitis said. "Our students are learning to see beyond their personal lives and take note of the world around them."

Hero Day and Hero Night are a part of a unique yearlong program that offers eighth grade students the opportunity to discuss and learn about heroism. In addition to writing poems, students also read about heroes specific to various subject areas such as math, science and social studies.