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Battle of the Classes
Alexa Vladu
May. 27 2026
On April 24th, Carle Place High School held its annual Battle of the Classes: Battling for a Cause. This year's events raised money and awareness for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in honor of the upcoming 25th anniversary of September 11th, 2001.
Battle of the Classes was a day full of teamwork and school pride. In the week leading up to the event, students participated in spirit week with themed days such as Decades Day, Jersey Day, and USA Pride Day. Pop-up events were also held throughout the week to raise excitement and bring students together. To begin fundraising, students also participated in Paper Wars during their lunch periods.
This year's Battle of the Classes had a deeper meaning due to its connection to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, an organization founded in memory of FDNY firefighter Stephen Siller. On September 11th, 2001, Siller lost his life while responding to the attacks on the World Trade Center. His sacrifice and courage were the inspiration for the foundation, which continues to support military members, first responders, veterans, and their families. This organization also provides mortgage-free homes to families that lost a loved one.
Carle Place Key Club played a major role in fundraising by organizing merchandise sales, selling more than 100 “CP Remembers, I ♥️ NY” shirts and headbands, which students wore on April 23rd as a symbol of their unity, respect, and remembrance. In addition, flags were sold with all proceeds donated directly to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. This year's Battle of the Classes will also connect to a future tribute through the school’s upcoming Field of Honor flag display.
The day began with grade bonding breakfast followed by a presentation. After the kickoff assembly, the stands were filled with excitement as students competed in a variety of events including volleyball, basketball, tug of war, dodgeball, box stacking, pictionary, and more. Additionally, each grade performed an organized skit showcasing their teamwork and creativity.
One of the most important accomplishments of this year’s Battle of the Classes was the amount of money raised for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Through the combined effort of the students, community support, clubs, and faculty, $30,000 was raised. Several students fundraised more than $1,000 each for the cause, including senior Alexander Rothstack and sophomores Alexis Castillo, Olivia Ribarich and Duke Wygand.
The success of the event would not have been possible without the dedication of Mrs. Buffalino or Dr. Kelly, who both worked to coordinate the day's activities and fundraising efforts. Overall, Battle of the Classes 2026 demonstrated school pride and compassion while students worked to fundraise in honor of a meaningful foundation.
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