Friday, November 6, 2026
Students and staff across the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District came together Oct. 21 to celebrate Unity Day, promoting kindness, inclusion and a sense of belonging through activities designed to strengthen connections within the school community.
This year's districtwide theme, "Crafting Our Story," emphasized how individual actions, relationships and acts of kindness contribute to a welcoming school environment.
Superintendent Michael Harrington selected the book "Exactly as Planned," by Tao Nyeu, to reinforce the message that everyone plays a role in shaping the community's shared story. Students and staff were encouraged to wear orange, the color associated with Unity Day, as a show of solidarity.
Schools throughout the district marked the occasion with interactive displays, creative projects and student-led activities.
At Merrick Avenue Middle School, students in the Rams Connect program traced their hands onto orange paper and wrote messages of kindness. The student council displayed the handprints throughout the building, creating a Unity Wall filled with encouraging words.
Grand Avenue Middle School students used their advisory periods to create a similar display highlighting connection, inclusion and belonging.
At Sanford H. Calhoun High School, students in the special education program joined seniors in teacher Alyssa Sieber's Direct Support Professional class for activities including a Unity Rock Garden, lanyard making and a photo booth where students represented the "I" in KIND.
Participants also shared messages of kindness with teachers and completed a Common Thread activity, illustrating how individual relationships and actions help strengthen the school community.
At John F. Kennedy High School, Key Club members created a Unity Wall featuring paper hearts decorated with uplifting messages. Students and staff were invited to walk through the decorated hallway and reflect on the importance of treating others with respect.
“Students and staff were encouraged to wear orange in solidarity and to take a walk through the decorated hallway to read the inspiring messages written by their peers, each one a reminder of the power of kindness and community at Kennedy High School,” said Brianna McKeough, a special education teacher and faculty adviser.
Wellington C. Mepham High School's choir created a Unity Wall of Words featuring messages of kindness and positivity, while students participated in team-building activities during physical education classes.
At Brookside School, the Brookside Buddies program paired students from the MAP and PREP Academy programs for a Day of Bonding, featuring interactive stations and activities designed to encourage friendships.
Students participated in face painting, temporary tattoos, sensory bag and keychain making, video games and a photo booth. The celebration also included a caramel apple bar and pizza bagel making.
The Unity Day activities built on the district's ongoing efforts to promote respect, civility and leadership.
On Sept. 23, the district hosted its fourth annual Section VIII Unity Summit at Brookside School, bringing together student-athletes and coaches from across Nassau County to discuss sportsmanship, leadership and respectful behavior.
Through Unity Day and other initiatives, the district continues to encourage students to embrace differences, build positive relationships and help create a school community where everyone feels valued and included.
