When ticking off the many and varied phys. ed. programs that Saul Lerner has brought to the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District, you quickly realize what a profound and lasting impact he has had on the lives of thousands of students, his colleagues say. Among the programs are girls’ lacrosse, boys’ badminton, bicycling in gym classes, and first aid/cardiopulmonary resuscitation for all students, a program begun with the Merrick-based Robbie Levine Foundation, to name just a few. Lerner is the Central District’s director of physical education, health, athletics, driver’s education and adult education. After 19 years in the district and 35 years in education, Lerner, 58, will retire on June 30. “It’s been a great run,” he said during an interview last week, “and I loved every minute of it, and I love the community.” more

Anna and Emily Lawrence, 17-year-old twins who attend Kennedy High School in Bellmore, are alike is nearly every way. They certainly look alike. They’re also both leaders in the student government, … more

It was a celebratory scene as parents and well wishers circled around Kennedy High School soccer stars Nicole Liotta, Franki Priore and Leanna Rodriguez when they signed their letters of intent to play in college on Feb. 5. more

“Cougar Nation” came together again on Dec. 19 to “jam the gym” for a varsity wrestling match and alumni night at John F. Kennedy High School. more

Craig Papach has taught phys. ed. and coached boys’ lacrosse at Kennedy High School for more than two decades, and over the years, the lacrosse team has accrued many wins and earned numerous accolades. 2012, Papach said, brought one of the squad’s finest achievements. more

Kennedy High School recently held “Jam the Gym –– Wrestling Night,” at which the school honored wrestling alumni, including former Kennedy wrestling great Steve Hunte. more

By the time Carly Thea was 9 years old, the now Kennedy High School senior knew that softball was the sport for her, and over the years her commitment to the game has grown. On Wednesday, Nov. 10, the Merrick native signed a letter of intent to continue playing the game that she loves at the University of Pittsburgh. She received a full athletic scholarship to the school. more