Merrick starts new school year

With a renewed focus on creating a positive impact on all students in the Merrick Union Free School District, faculty and staff members at Birch, Chatterton and Lakeside schools welcomed children on Sept. 5 on the first day of school.

The district’s new slogan, “We are Merrick. I Have Impact” seeks to blend the district’s initiatives to create one message and demonstrate that the district will use its impact to support, educate and include and inspire students, families, colleagues and community.

“Creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving are continually embedded in our curriculum to help students to grow and develop across all academic domains,” said Dominick Palma, superintendent of schools. “Our staff works diligently to meet the needs of all children, while supporting, guiding and challenging them to be the best they can be.”

Staff officially returned to work last week, and Chatterton Principal Dana Bermas said that they are “energized and ready for a fantastic school year.” Chatterton celebrates its 100^th birthday this school year.

“Our main goal at Chatterton is to help each child grow into a motivated and confident learner and a compassionate individual,” added Bermas. “We do this by instilling a love of learning while ensuring our students are ready to meet the challenges and demands of the 21st century.”

“Our school continues to focus on ‘Building a Foundation for Our Futures’ through improving academic skills for all of our students,” said Birch Principal Kerri Galante. “In doing so, we look forward to enhancing our current curricular programs by challenging students to delve deeper into topics and text across curricular areas.”

“Students are encouraged to take risks in their learning and persevere when they are met with challenges,” added Lakeside Principal Libby Trencheny. “We consistently build upon our school-wide character education theme.”