Before it was time to get down to business, North Bellmore School District Board of Education trustees, administrators and the public were treated to a musical delight. The district’s sixth grade Festival Band opened the March 13 meeting at Martin Avenue Elementary School with a pair of songs.

The performance celebrated Music in Our Schools Month and the district’s commitment to music education. The Festival Band includes sixth graders from all five elementary schools and is directed by Skylar Berkley and Christopher D’Orio.

“This talented group of musicians represents the dedication, perseverance and enthusiasm that make our district so special,” said Saw Mill Road Elementary School Assistant Principal Daniel Madden, administrative liaison to the music program. “Through every note they play, these students showcase not only their musical growth but also their ability to collaborate and rise to new challenges – skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom. Their journey is a testament to the power of the arts in shaping confident, passionate learners who are ready to make their mark on the world.”

Under the direction of Mr. D’Orio, the band played “Royal Crown March.” Ms. Berkley then led the ensemble in “Alpha Squadron.”

Superintendent Marie Testa recognized all of the district’s music teachers and noted that the program supports the mission of developing well-rounded students. She added that the performance reflects the joy and value that music brings to people’s lives.

“North Bellmore has an exemplary music education program,” she said. “We want to celebrate our students and our teachers.”

Click here to view the Festival Band Delights Audience at BOE Meeting slideshow.

Date Added: 3/18/2025

To build their Spanish vocabulary, fifth and sixth graders at Newbridge Road Elementary School and throughout the North Bellmore School District participated in a competition.  

During their Spanish language courses, which are held once per six-day cycle, students had to answer questions about the weather, day of the week and date. The faster they answered, the more points they got. Students were also rewarded for their use of other Spanish vocabulary words.  

At the end of the February, Kristen Giris announced the class winners at each building. During her visit to Newbridge Road on Feb. 28, she gave the good news to Paige Becker’s fifth graders and presented them with a trophy. 

Ms. Giris said the competition helped student reinforce their knowledge of days of the weeks, months, numbers and weather terminology. Students will begin a new contest that will focus on other topics and vocabular words that will last until the end of the school year. North Bellmore’s Spanish program includes instruction for fourth, fifth and sixth graders.

Date Added: 3/6/2025

A generation ago, getting called to the principal’s office might have brought some nerves, but in modern times it’s a positive and welcoming place at Newbridge Road Elementary School. 

By moving some furniture and creating more open space, the office of Principal Amanda Licci is now known as Mrs. Licci’s Lair. The name is based on the school mascot, Thunder the Tiger, who, if students look close enough, can be found there in slumber.   

Throughout January, Ms. Licci has been inviting each class to the lair for a read aloud of “Maybe” by Kobi Yamada. The book emphasizes the endless potential in everyone. She chose it not only because of its message, but because the book appeals to students from kindergarten to sixth grade. The few words have deep meaning, while the vibrant illustrations support the message. 

 

While reading the book, Ms. Licci engages students in conversations about their hopes, wishes and dreams. She wants students to understand that their “maybes” can come true with hard work and determination. Inspirational signs around her office like “Everything is Possible” and “Dream Big, Aim High” reinforce the message.   

The principal’s office read alouds have been received well by both students and teachers. Fifth graders in Karen Barrins’ class created a large poster, thanking Ms. Licci and sharing their dreams. Karen Buran’s sixth graders each wrote individual letters about ways the book impacted them.   

After each read aloud ended, Ms. Licci gifted the class a copy of “Maybe.” She added that this initiative reinforces that the school is a community of readers.  

Date Added: 1/30/2025