A Fond Farewell To North Bellmore Grads

The North Bellmore School District said goodbye to 294 students who graduated from the five elementary schools on June 21 and who will come together at Grand Avenue Middle School in September.

The evening ceremonies featured students speaking about their fondest memories over the last seven years and board of education members and administrators sharing inspirational messages. There were also musical performances such as the jazz band’s rendition of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” at Newbridge Road School, “Canon In D” by Saw Mill Road School’s sixth-grade orchestra, “Our Names in Lights” sung by John Dinkelmeyer School’s graduates and the Park Avenue and Martin Avenue school songs.

“Graduation signifies the end of one journey and the beginning of a brand new exciting adventure,” said Martin Avenue Principal Leyna Malone, who noted that the sixth-graders would hold a special place in her heart as her first set of graduates as principal.

Superintendent Marie Testa shared a poem, “The Blue Between,” and encouraged students to see past what is ordinary and strive for the extraordinary. In middle school, she said, they will have many new opportunities to seek out their passions and to continue their pursuits as thinkers, innovators and creators.

A recurring theme in the messages to students was the importance of good character. Newbridge Road Principal Denise Fisher reminded them to be honest, live with integrity and help those in need. Park Avenue Principal Eileen Speidel said that the students have grown into helpful, respectful, caring and kind individuals who can use those traits to succeed in middle school.

Saw Mill Road Principal Jeff Rosof cited lyrics from “Hall of Fame,” one of the evening’s musical selections. “Whatever path you take, whatever you choose to do in life, be sure to make it into your own Hall of Fame,” he said to his 81 graduates. “Set the highest expectations and go meet those expectations. Believe in yourself and others will believe in you.”

Martin Avenue graduate Christian Graziano and his classmates believe. “Although we are sad to leave elementary school,” he said, “we are well prepared for the challenges that lie ahead in middle school.”

Photos: North Bellmore School District