The Bellmore “Lead and Learn” community expressed kind words of appreciation to the five volunteer members of the Bellmore Board of Education in honor of School Board Recognition Week during the Nov. 16 public meeting.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joseph Famularo stated that the district’s successes and accomplishments are due to the board’s commitment and support of programs and that the definition of “leadership” starts with their example as Star Polishers. The students’ understanding of the district’s Leadership Principles and shared Core Values was exemplified in a video shown to the trustees in which students gave their personal definition of leadership.
Bellmore Faculty Organization representative Chris Merz presented the board with a certificate of appreciation and a donation to Boundless Playgrounds in the trustees’ honor. Boundless Playgrounds is a nonprofit organization that assists communities in creating barrier-free playgrounds for children with and without disabilities so they can develop essential life skills through play.
On behalf of the Bellmore PTA, Co-President Leslie Cerverizzo told the trustees that the community admires their ability to synergize their efforts and to look at education with foresight and an open mind. The PTA gifted keychains with an inscription that read “Light the Way,” a reference to the district’s Lighthouse District status.
“As the leaders of our Community of Learners, you are continuously improving our Bellmore schools, paving the way for others to follow, with initiatives focusing on safety, technology, performance, core values and leadership,” Ms. Cerverizzo said. “We thank you for helping to create an environment that focuses on enhancing positive relationships all the while nurturing our students ability to explore, question, problem solve and ultimately become lifelong learners.”
On behalf of the district’s building administrators, Winthrop Avenue School Principal Sally Curto delivered a message thanking the trustees for their dedication and a culture of “synergy and leadership” despite the year’s challenges. “To each challenge you have responded with strong leadership and thoughtful decision-making, which we appreciate and applaud,” Ms. Curto said. “Knowing that we have had your support in every aspect involved in this school year has made it possible to provide our students with a robust, in-person school experience.”