Student Artwork and Musical Performance Celebrate Board Appreciation Month

The Central High School District celebrated Board Appreciation Month at its Nov. 4 meeting by recognizing its Board of Education members with a special presentation showcasing the creativity and talents of students and staff from the district’s fine and performing arts programs.  

Inspired by this year’s district theme, Crafting Our Story Together, the presentation highlighted the important role board members play in shaping the school community. 

Students presented board members with a large collaborative artwork resembling a handcrafted quilt, along with individual student-created keychains. Each piece reflected the individuality, creativity and connections that come together to make the Bellmore-Merrick community special. 

The celebration also featured a musical performance by Grand Voices, led by Grand Avenue Middle School music teacher Amanda Cantwell, who directed students in a rendition of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” 

Superintendent Michael Harrington expressed his gratitude for the board’s dedication and the positive impact of its work throughout the district. 

“It’s not only the consistency, but the excellence, the care, the compassion, the heart that they have, what they do, and for what happens in our schools, and how our students and families are treated and taken care of. It’s second to none,” Harrington said.  

The presentation was coordinated by Cheryl Fontana, the district’s director of fine and performing arts, with support from teachers Arianna Partland, Heather Cordeira, Heather Deery and Nick Giordano.  

Their efforts, along with the students’ thoughtful contributions, offered a meaningful expression of appreciation for the Board of Education and its continued commitment to Bellmore-Merrick students, families and staff.