Newbridge Road Elementary School students are developing confidence and learning responsibility through numerous leadership opportunities that allow them to serve as role models, assist their peers and contribute positively to the school community.  

During a program for students in grades 3-6 on Sept. 22, Principal Amanda Licci introduced students to more than a half-dozen leadership roles available. Several are tried and true at Newbridge Road like student council, which focuses on community service projects, and Spirit Club, which plans the monthly spirit assemblies. Tiger Birthday Boosters and Thunder Greeting Squad, both an homage to the school mascot, are returning after highly successful launches last year. Several students who have been a part of these clubs spoke about the responsibilities and the benefits of joining.  

Three new clubs are launching that will provide the school’s senior students with leadership opportunities: 

Crate Courier Team – participants will collect and deliver lunch crates from the first floor classrooms each morning to be safely delivered to the cafeteria. They will provide a valuable service that helps lunchtime run efficiently.  

Multilingual Mentors – students who are proficient in both English and a second language will connect with new peers who are learning English. They will serve as friendly buddies to help others feel included, confident and part of the school community. Among their responsibilities will be helping new students learn the building and routines. 

Newbridge News – fifth and sixth graders will create regular broadcasts to highlight happenings in the school community. They will be supported by students from the broadcasting program in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District.   

Ms. Licci said that the expanded leadership opportunities support the North Bellmore School District’s launch of the Leader in Me initiative. Student voice has always been valued at Newbridge Road, she explained, and they now have more ways than ever to make a positive impact on their school. At the end of the Sept. 22 program, students were provided with applications and could seek membership in as many of the clubs as they desired.