Superintendent Bids North Bellmore Schools Goodbye

Story by Chris Boyle 

Wrapping up his five-year run as the North Bellmore Superintendent of Schools this week, the retiring Arnold Goldstein gave a heartfelt farewell speech at Thursday’s board of education meeting.

Reflecting upon his service to the District, Goldstein praised the community for their vital support and assistance through both good times and bad.

“I want our thank parents for sending such wonderful children,” he said. “And if children are a reflection of their parents, and I believe they are, then you can all be so proud, because you all did an extraordinarily fine job...the children of North Bellmore are very special.”

Goldstein also extended his gratitude to his administration and staff for their part in making his time as superintendent successful.  

“I thank you from my heart, I wish you all the best, and I know that North Bellmore will continue to be the district of excellence,” he said. “North Bellmore will continue to be a beacon to those seeking to be the very best in public education...and that will happen because of the hard work of everyone here. Thank you very much.”

Goldstein will be succeeded as by Marie Testa, who was voted unanimously to the position by the school board on May 7. She had previously served as principal of Martin Avenue School until the conclusion of the 2012-2013 school year, as which time she tendered her resignation to take the superintendent position.

Testa, who has been with the District since 1994, is the first female Superintendent in the history of the North Bellmore School District.

“It has been a privilege and an honor to be superintendent here, but I want you to know that I leave a very contented man...I’m greatly comforted in knowing that Marie Testa will carry on our tradition of excellence,” Goldstein said. “And that tradition of excellence that I was fortunate enough to inherit when I first took this job can be passed along to you, Marie, and I know that tradition will be upheld under your care.”

Board of Education President Jo Ann De Lauter saluted Goldstein, saying that North Bellmore had benefited greatly from his hard work and enthusiasm for the students under his watch, and that he would be missed greatly.

“We want to thank you for your five years of service to the children of this district,” he said. “We wish you much happiness and a really great retirement...you’ve earned it. Thank you.”

Goldstein also acknowledged the retirement of seven staff members, thanking them for their hard work and dedication to the education of the children of the North Bellmore School District.

“Each of you are part of a group of very hard working professionals, individuals who are dedicated to serving kids no matter what capacity that you do that in. You are conscientious, caring, and kind, and I salute you for that,” he said. “On behalf of the thousands of students, their parents, and your colleagues, that the Board of Education acknowledges your contributions and thanks you for all that you’ve done for the children of North Bellmore.”