New year brings renewed excitement in North Bellmore

Nearly 2,100 elementary students donned new sneakers and sported fresh haircuts as they arrived on Sept. 6 for the beginning of the 2016-17 school year in North Bellmore. Among those were the 278 kindergartners who will be part of the class of 2029.

Principals noted the energy the first day of school brings, from Eileen Speidel, beginning her 10th year at Park Avenue School, to Leyna Malone, the new principal at Martin Avenue School. “It’s always exciting on the first day,” Speidel said. “A lot of enthusiasm and smiles.”

Park Avenue’s 325 students began the day by dancing to music played over the loudspeaker as Speidel looked to begin the year on a joyful note. Parents were invited to “Second Cup of Coffee” in the cafeteria where they could learn more about volunteer opportunities with the PTA. At the end of the day, Speidel invited newcomers in the older grades to her office for a meet and greet, and presented them with a stuffed animal, Parker the Panda. Librarian Phyllis Squicciarini hosted a “book tasting,” inviting students to sit down and sample a platter of books.

For the sixth-graders, it marked their last first day of school in North Bellmore. Martin Avenue student Peter Mayo said he is excited to do science experiments this year and for the outdoor education trip to Caumsett State Park in the spring. He also wants to set a positive example for the school’s younger students. “It’s my last year here,” he said, “and I want to make it the best.”

Malone noted that it’s the teachers who do the “heavy lifting” on the first day of school as they welcome the students and set the tone. After introductions, many teachers read aloud books that focused on persistence and perseverance, a reminder to the students that they can accomplish anything this year.