The Bellmore Elementary PTA presented 12 individuals with New York State PTA Life Membership awards during the annual Founders Day celebration, held on Feb. 1 at Reinhard. Honorary NYS State PTA Life Memberships are given to those who have made a significant contribution to the welfare of children and have demonstrated outstanding service to the school community.

“Tonight, we celebrate the adults who have dedicated invaluable time in our community of learners and who are an important part of our district vision,” stated Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joseph Famularo. “All of the recipients in the room are Star Polishers who have helped students to lead and learn.”

After each of the recipients was called up to the podium by PTA 
Co-Presidents Michele Aurigema and Leslie Cerverizzo, family members filed onto the stage with flowers and hugs. Performances by the Shore Road Ukulele Club and the Bellmore Star Chorus added celebratory notes to the cherished occasion, with a finale performance by the Belltones.  

The Bellmore Elementary PTA and school district community congratulates the following life membership recipients: Debra Ammendola, special education teacher, Winthrop Avenue; Michele Aurigema, Bellmore Elementary PTA co-president; Dawn Balnis, front door monitor/greeter, Winthrop Avenue; Elise Cahill, coordinator for student services, C. A. Reinard; Eileen Consiglio, second-grade teacher, C. A. Reinhard; Mary Donato, front door/monitor, C. A. Reinhard; Lisa Hoffman, PTA  executive vice president, Shore Road School; Dawn Johnstone, PTA treasurer for all schools; Marla Musgnug, teacher’s assistant, C. A. Reinhard; Kelly Popielaski, sixth-grade teacher, Shore Road; Melissa Sarubbi, PTA volunteer; Theresa Watson, fifth-grade teacher, Shore Road.