Bellmore is home to two distinct elementary school districts — Bellmore Public Schools and the North Bellmore School District — which serve students from kindergarten through sixth grade before they move on to the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District for middle and high school. Here’s a breakdown of these two school districts, their schools, and what makes them stand out.
1. Bellmore Public Schools
Bellmore Public Schools is a small, close-knit district with a strong focus on academic excellence and leadership development. The district serves students in grades K-6 before they transition to Grand Avenue or Merrick Avenue middle schools in the Central District. The superintendent is Joseph Famularo.
Schools in the Bellmore Public Schools District:
• Charles A. Reinhard Early Childhood Center (grades Pre-K-2)
• Shore Road School (grades 5-6)
• Winthrop Avenue School (grades 3-4)
Bellmore Public Schools emphasizes leadership, creativity and character development, incorporating the Leader in Me program into its curriculum to instill lifelong skills in students.
2. North Bellmore School District
North Bellmore School District is larger than Bellmore Public Schools, serving students in grades K-6 across five elementary schools. The district provides a well-rounded education with a focus on literacy STEM and social-emotional learning. The district’s superintendent is Marie Testa.
Schools in the North Bellmore School District:
• John G. Dinkelmeyer Elementary School
• Martin Avenue Elementary School
• Newbridge Road Elementary School
• Park Avenue Elementary School
• Saw Mill Road Elementary School
North Bellmore prides itself on fostering a strong sense of community with schools hosting various cultural and extracurricular events, such as Multicultural Night, Family STEAM Nights and seasonal celebrations that engage students and families. The district’s mission is to inspire all students to be confident, passionate learners with the courage and skills to lead their lives with integrity while contributing to our global community with creativity and compassion.
3. Transition to the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District
Once students complete sixth grade, they move on to the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District, which includes:
• Grand Avenue Middle School
• Merrick Avenue Middle School
• John E. Kennedy High School
• Wellington C. Mepham High School
• Sanford H. Calhoun High School
With three high schools, two middle schools and several specialized programs, the district emphasizes academic excellence, leadership development and community engagement. The district’s superintendent is Michael Harrington.
The district offers strong academics and college readiness programs:
• Advanced Placement & College-Level Courses: The district offers more than 20 AP courses along with college-credit courses in partnership with local universities.
• Regents & Honors Programs: Students have access to Honors, Regents and IB-level coursework to challenge them academically.
• Science Research Program: A prestigious program where students conduct college-level research and compete in national competitions.
• Bellmore-Merrick Broadcasting: A unique program that provides hands-on experience in journalism, broadcasting and media production.
• Robotics & STEM Initiatives: Students participate in engineering, robotics and coding competitions through clubs like the Robotics Team.
Specialized learning
programs include:
• Meadowbrook Alternative Program: A small, student-centered alternative program for high school students needing a non-traditional educational setting.
• On Tour Program: A highly regarded performing arts academy where students receive professional-level training in theater, music, and stage productíon.
• The Prep Academy: Designed for students who benefit from individualized academic support and vocational training.
• Culinary Arts & Hospitality Program: A career and technical education program that provides students with hands-on experience in culinary arts, baking and hospitality management.
• Cosmetology Program: Provides students with hands-on training in hair styling, makeup, skincare and salon management.
Community and leadership
initiatives include:
• Student Government & Leadership Programs: Each school has an active student government, encouraging civic engagement and leadership.
• Bellmore-Merrick Community Cupboard: A district-run food pantry that assists local families in need.
• Service-Learning Opportunities: Students participate in volunteer projects, fundraising events and community service initiatives.
The Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District is often recognized for excellence:
• Consistently High Rankings: Bellmore-Merrick schools are often recognized as top-performing schools in New York state.
• College Acceptance & Scholarships: Students regularly receive admissions to Ivy League and top-tier universities, along with substantial merit-based scholarships.
