Passaic County Technical Institute (PCTI) opened its doors to veterans across Passaic County to pay respect and reverence during the school’s Memorial Day assembly. At the event’s helm was longstanding History Instructor Catherine Pagano, who recently celebrated her 40th and final year with the high school. Her relationship with the veteran community has allowed PCTI’s outreach initiatives to grow and develop, ensuring that students develop profound relationships with those who have served our great nation.
Special performances were delivered by members of PCTI’s vocal program singing Star Spangled Banner, NJRTOC members presenting the Colors and performing “Old Glory,” as well as band students playing Taps. AP History students honored their teacher, Catherine Pagano, with a touching tribute. She was also recognized by PCTI Superintendent Diana Lobosco, Board of Education President Al Alexander, and Board Commissioner Michael Coscia, for her tireless dedication to the school and the community.
Additional Memorial Day festivities included honoring 100-year-old veteran, Tony Schimenti with a birthday cake and PCTI’s Advertising Art & Design students presenting patriotic artwork to veterans.
The touching activities honored all who sacrificed their lives in service of our great nation and paid tribute to their memory.
PCTI Honors a Memorable Memorial Day
PCTI student artists Ava Liguori (North Haledon), Saida Marroquin (Paterson), Caitlin Valencia (Paterson), Emily Burak (Clifton), Nicole Montoya (Pompton Lakes), Nallely Inoa (Paterson), Sasha Wozney (North Haledon; representative for Yolanda Chavez), and Gabriela Galik (Clifton) deliver artwork to veterans at the Memorial Day Ceremony.
Students present veteran Tony Schimenti with a cake in honor of his 100th birthday.
Instructor Catherine Pagano receives flowers from her AP History students in honor of her retirement.