Thursday, October 1, 2026
The student councils at John F. Kennedy High School and Sanford H. Calhoun High School have earned National Gold Council of Excellence recognition from the National Association of Student Councils, a distinction that honors student organizations demonstrating exceptional leadership, service, citizenship and community engagement.
The Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District announced the achievement, which recognizes councils that meet a rigorous set of national standards. According to the National Association of Student Councils, the Gold Council of Excellence designation is awarded to student councils that successfully demonstrate a commitment to leadership, service projects, civic engagement and activities that improve school climate and strengthen connections with the broader community.
At Kennedy High School, the Student Government is advised by Bradley Seidman and includes an executive board of more than 20 student leaders, six senators from each grade level and a general assembly of more than 100 students.
Throughout the school year, the organization leads a wide range of service initiatives and school events. Among its accomplishments, Kennedy students raised more than $10,000 through the Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics New York, organized a staff basketball game that generated an additional $1,000 for the Bellmore-Merrick Community Cupboard and coordinated the school’s annual holiday food drive.
Student volunteers also supported the Long Island Alzheimer’s and Dementia Center and prepared and served dinner for more than 55 residents at the Ronald McDonald House.
Beyond community service, Kennedy’s Student Government helps organize many of the school’s signature traditions, including homecoming festivities, Jam the Gym, Safe Halloween, Class Night and the annual Dancing with the Teachers competition.
“Earning the Gold Council of Excellence Award is a reflection of a sustained commitment to integrity, hard work and authentic service,” Seidman said. “With over 100 students actively participating in the club, our council doesn’t just talk about leadership; they execute it regularly.”
At Calhoun High School, the Student Council is advised by Jason Boland and oversees many of the school’s most visible events and traditions, including the pep rally, homecoming dance, spirit weeks and Class Night.
In addition to fostering school spirit, Calhoun’s student leaders have expanded the council’s community service efforts in recent years. Students have organized food drives benefiting the Community Cupboard, participated in coat collections and raised money for charitable causes, including leukemia research.
“This recognition reflects our students’ commitment to making a positive impact both within our school and throughout the community,” Boland said. “Their dedication to service and school spirit makes this honor especially meaningful.”
The National Association of Student Councils, a program of the National Association of Secondary School Principals, annually recognizes student councils across the country that exemplify effective leadership and meaningful service. Schools seeking Gold Council of Excellence status must document their achievements and demonstrate that students play an active role in planning and carrying out initiatives that benefit both their schools and local communities.
District officials said the recognition reflects the dedication of student leaders at both schools and their efforts to create opportunities for service, strengthen school traditions and make a positive impact beyond the classroom.
