The 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks offers an opportunity to remember those who lost their lives, honor the courage of first responders and survivors, and reflect on the lasting impact of the events on the United States and the world. It is also a time to support thoughtful, age-appropriate learning that helps students understand both the historical significance of 9/11 and its continuing influence on civic life, public policy, and national memory.
This collection of resources is designed to help educators, students, and families engage with the anniversary through primary sources, lesson plans, historical accounts, multimedia, and opportunities for reflection. The materials encourage inquiry, critical thinking, and respectful discussion while recognizing the diverse experiences and perspectives of those affected by the attacks. Whether introducing students to this history for the first time or deepening existing understanding, these resources provide a foundation for meaningful learning that connects the events of September 11 with broader themes of resilience, service, democracy, and civic responsibility. Through informed remembrance, we can preserve the lessons of the past while preparing future generations to thoughtfully engage with history and one another.
Educator Resources
Curricula, Units and Lesson Plans
- Lesson Plans, National September 11 Memorial & Museum
Lesson plans and resources from the National September 11 Memorial and Museum - Teaching About 9/11, NEA
Curated teaching resources from the National Education Association. The “Approaches to Teaching” section is especially useful for teachers introducing the lessons of 9/11 to an audience for whom the events of September 11, 2001, are history. - 911 Materials for Teachers, US Department of Education
Resources prepared for the tenth anniversary of the September 11 attacks in 2011. Many of the links to federal agency reports are still useful. - 9/11 Curriculum, Tunnel to Towers Foundation
A full curriculum, as well as individual lessons and units produced by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. - Teaching 9/11 and the War on Terror Beyond the Twentieth Anniversary – A Resource Guide for Teachers and Educators – UW–Madison
Resources produced with assistance from the Library of Congress for teachers engaged in education on the September 11 attacks. - Curriculum | 9/11 Legacy Foundation
Curricular and individual lesson resources with new materials releasing throughout 2026 in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.
25th Anniversary Resources
- 9/11 Day
For the 25th anniversary of 9/11, millions of Americans will join together in a powerful expression of unity — putting aside differences to do good. - Tunnel to Towers 25th Anniversary
In this 25th anniversary year of September 11, 2001, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation is embarking on the most comprehensive commemoration in our history—one that honors the past, serves those in need today, and educates the generations of tomorrow. - 9/11 Memorial & Museum 25th Anniversary Commemoration
At the center of the mission of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is the annual commemoration ceremony. Family members of the victims will gather on the Memorial plaza to read aloud the names of those killed in the 9/11 attacks and in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.
Misinformation and the History of 9/11
- Conspiracy theories: Guidance for teachers - Since 9/11
Information and resources to help teachers dispel conspiracy theories that have emerged surrounding the events of 9/11/2001. - “It’s a Growing and Serious Problem:” Teaching 9/11 to Combat Misinformation and Conspiracy Theories: The Social Studies: Vol 112, No 6
Full-text article on the challenges posed by conspiracy theories, including 9/11, in social studies.
Maine connections to September 11
- Tracing the Path of the 9/11 Hijackers Through Maine
A text and video retrospective of locations in Maine linked to Mohammed Atta and Abdulaziz Olamari, two of the September 11 hijackers who traveled through Maine to perpetrate the attacks. - 9/11 Day of Service - Maine
In 2009, Congress declared September 11 a national day of service. VolunteerMaine coordinates local service events. - First Responder Day & Maine Week of Heroes
September 11 is First Responder Day, observed annually as part of Maine's Week of Heroes.
Mainers Killed in the September 11 Attacks
Six Mainers and people with Maine ties lost their lives in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. They were among the 2,996 people killed in the attacks, which included victims from the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and the hijacked aircraft.
Confirmed Maine victims:
- Robert Jalbert – Lewiston, on United Airlines Flight 175, which hit the South Tower of the World Trade Center.
- James Roux – Portland, also on United Airlines Flight 175. He was en route to climb the Himalayas.
- Robert Norton & Jacqueline Norton – Lubec, on American Airlines Flight 11, which hit the North Tower. They were traveling to their son’s wedding in California.
- Commander Robert Schlegel – Gray, a U.S. Navy officer posted at the Pentagon when American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the building.
- Stephen Ward – Gorham, who had just moved to New York City to work for Cantor Fitzgerald. He was among the 658 employees killed in the North Tower. His family honors his memory annually with a 5K race for scholarships.
- Another unnamed Maine resident – Listed in official memorials as part of the Maine group of victims.
These individuals represent the Maine connection to the 9/11 tragedy, remembered each year as part of the national remembrance. Their names are inscribed at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City.