At the recent Memorial Day services at Law Park, Briarcliff Manor School District Superintendent Jim Kaishian addressed the community. On behalf of the school district, he reflected on the day and called for civic responsibility.
In his speech, Dr. Kaishian reminded students, staff and families that honoring fallen service members goes beyond tradition — it is a call to active citizenship, compassion and personal responsibility.
He emphasized that Memorial Day is not only a time to remember the sacrifices made by those who gave their lives in defense of freedom, but also a moment to reflect on how each of us — especially young people — can contribute to a stronger, more just society.
“Those we honor gave their lives to protect a democracy that depends on citizens who are informed, engaged and responsible,” Dr. Kaishian said. “A democracy where every voice matters, and every action counts.
“Citizenship is about more than words; it’s about using our talents not just to succeed individually, but to lift others and make a difference.”
The ceremony closed with a reminder of Briarcliff’s motto, “I shall grow, and I shall shine,” reframing growth as a commitment to gratitude, service, and civic engagement.
“That’s how the Briarcliff community stays strong — and that, more than any ceremony, is how we truly honor those who gave their lives on Memorial Day.”
Here is Dr. Kaishian’s speech in full:
Good morning, everyone.
Today, we gather for an important reason — to honor the those who gave their lives in service to our nation. Memorial Day is a solemn occasion, a time when communities like ours here in Briarcliff pause to remember the cost of our freedoms.
But Memorial Day is more than a tradition. It is a moment for reflection — especially for our students — on the values that define a strong and compassionate nation: courage, sacrifice and service to others.
History can feel distant. Wars fought long ago. Sacrifices made by people we may never meet. But Memorial Day reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy — to speak, to learn, to live with purpose — came at a cost. They were secured by individuals who believed these ideals were worth defending.
Today offers a learning opportunity — not only about the past, but about the future we are all helping to shape. Those we honor gave their lives to protect a democracy that depends on citizens who are informed, engaged and responsible. A democracy where every voice matters, and every action counts.
In our schools, we emphasize qualities like critical thinking, problem-solving and civic engagement. These are not just academic skills — they are responsibilities we inherit as members of a free society. They are the tools that help our nation grow stronger, fairer and more just.
And each student, at every age, can begin that work now:
Our youngest students can show service by being kind and including others.
Our middle school student can lead by standing up to bullying and bigotry — helping make our schools and neighborhoods places where everyone feels safe and respected.
Our high school student can serve by volunteering in the community. The Briarcliff Fire and Ambulance Corps needs you. So do 914 Cares, the ASPCA, and the Atria. And if you can’t volunteer, use your voice to speak up for those in need.
The greatest way we can honor those we remember today is by being the kind of citizens they hoped we would be:
Citizens who ask thoughtful questions and seek understanding.
Citizens who value community over division.
Citizens who use their talents not just to succeed individually, but to lift others and make a difference.
As we move through this day, I encourage each of you — students, adults and families — to take a moment to reflect. Think about what you stand for. Think about the kind of world you want to build. Then, like those we honor today, commit yourself to doing your part — with courage, kindness and a sense of purpose.
In Briarcliff Schools, we believe in the motto (Crescam et Lucebo) “I shall grow, and I shall shine.” Let that growth be rooted in gratitude, and that shine reflect your commitment to carrying forward the ideals that were fought for — both today and long ago.
That’s how the Briarcliff Manor community stays strong — and that, more than any ceremony, is how we truly honor those who gave their lives in battle on Memorial Day.
Thank you.
