Freedom Quilt Presented at Jack Abrams School
A beautiful quilt comprised of artistic squares created by students and depicting what freedom means to them, was presented to Jack Abrams Intermediate School Principal Mary Stokkers at advanced ensemble spring concert.
Art teacher Karen Morea collaborated with music teacher Christina Bhasin and other department members on the project that saw students working for two days on the quilt. The attractive finished product is already one of the school’s treasured possessions.
Fifth graders Jason Catarino and Justin Meyer and sixth graders Kylie Palmer, Mackenzie Maloney and Fiona Geier held the quilt during the presentation ceremony “because they represented the entirety of what we wanted to represent by doing this project: boys and girls together of two different grades who never would have had a conversation, let alone, who never would have chosen to work together for two full afternoons if it wasn't for this project,” Ms. Jablon said.
The project brought different segments of the student body together. “Now, they often say hi to each other in the hall or the older girls are seen giving the younger boys a hi-five during the school day,” Ms. Jablon said.
The school’s advanced band performed Michael Sweeney’s “Armed Forces March,” including “The Caissons Go Rolling Along,” “Marine’s Hymn” and “Anchor’s Aweigh.” Veterans were invited to stand as the song of their respective branch in the service was played. “As the band began each tune, there was tremendous applause and standing ovations from the audience as people stood to be recognized,” Ms. Jablon said. “The students absolutely adored playing along with the applause.”
Near the end of the performance, Mrs. Stokkers surprised students and faculty members by inviting Ms. Jablon and her fellow music teachers Christina Bhasin, Mitch Malle and Katie Canales up to the risers, along with all the members of the band, orchestra and chorus. “She then brought up a flag and invited all of the members of the armed forces to come up to the stage,” Ms. Jablon recounted. “Mrs. Canales sang the National Anthem as the audience stood. The advanced musical groups stood on the risers holding the freedom quilt and saluting the flag along with the veterans.”
As tears welled up in the eyes of some veterans, students stood erect, filled with pride and appreciation. It was a moment that will long be remembered by those in attendance.
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