North Bellmore Grads Encouraged To Dream Big

From 30 sixth-graders at Martin Avenue Elementary School, to 119 at Saw Mill Road, the North Bellmore School District graduated 319 students during evening ceremonies on June 20.

The programs included musical performances, student reflections and the presentation of diplomas. Ceremonies were held at a variety of locations, including Grand Avenue Middle School, giving Newbridge Road and Park Avenue graduates a chance to see the school they will attended for seventh and eighth grades.
Seven Newbridge Road students shared their memories, with each selecting a different elementary grade to reflect upon. They recounted penguin day in kindergarten, learning to play the recorder in third grade and field trips to Project Adventure and Caumsett State Park this past year.

Administrators congratulated the students on their accomplishments and offered words of advice to the graduates. Superintendent Marie Testa told them to not only dream big, but to plan a course of action to achieve their dreams. It’s also OK for those dreams to change and to pursue other interests, she said, adding that middle school will give them new opportunities to explore.

Newbridge Road Elementary School Principal Denise Fisher told students to remain humble and kind.

“It turns out, according to all of the research, that the secret to success and fulfillment may very well lie in one’s ability to express humility and kindness,” she said. “These qualities lead to good health, good leadership and positive emotions.”

Park Avenue Principal Eileen Speidel’s speech focused on grit. She said that scholars show grit by trying, taking risks, accepting challenges and persevering. Faith Skelos, principal of John Dinkelmeyer Elementary School, reminded her graduates to use the knowledge and experience they have gained in the past seven years to make good decisions and make the world a better place.

Musical selections captured the excitement of new beginnings, such as at Dinkelmeyer and Martin Avenue where students sang “We Won't Stop Dreaming” and “I’m on Top of the World,” along with the respective school songs. The Saw Mill Road sixth-grade band played “Celebration Overture,” while the orchestra’s performance of “Our Heroes” paid tribute to all of the adults who have stood behind the graduates and supported them over the years.

“Celebrate today with your loved ones, treasure them and keep them close,” said Martin Avenue Principal Leyna Malone. “For there is nothing, nothing, more important than the love of your family and friends.”

Photos courtesy the North Bellmore School District