At Merrick Avenue Middle School's sixth grade parent orientation last Thursday night, Principal Caryn Blum announced to the new and returning parents that the school was a Blue Ribbon award winner.

"I was honored to go to Washington and accept the blue ribbon from the President," she said to the mostly filled auditorium.

The Blue Ribbon award, which recognizes outstanding schools, is given to fewer than five percent of schools nationwide.  The orientation was held for parents to address any concerns they might have about sending their children off to middle school, which combines students from both the Merrick and Bellmore elementary school districts. 

"For me, the big thing is our district is so different," school athletic director Rich Wilen said.  "This orientation helps to make that transition [for students and parents alike] to middle school easier."

Many of the spectators listened intently as Blum and Wilen provided information on the school's continuing efforts to educate and nurture students in a transition that can be alarming for any child leaving the familiar confines of his/her elementary school.

"We want parents to feel comfortable sending their children to middle school," Blum said. "It can be overwhelming leaving the comforts of elementary school to come to a school this size."

Blum, following the orientation, spoke of a protectiveness the school holds over its students.  In a school that houses about 1,000 students, Blum said the school offered a personalized experience where students and staff cooperate on fun, educational and social activities. 

"These are the most crucial years in the development of children," Blum said. "We offer a very strong social and emotional component so children can walk out of here more socially aware and confident."

Merrick Avenue parents seemed to agree in the standard the school puts forward. Dr. Pamela Banks, a pediatrician and Merrick resident, is sending her third child to the school next year.

"It's very warm and teachers are very helpful," Banks said. "They definitely try to promote that this is a community."

Gina McGovern, president of the Merrick Avenue PTA, said that the transition from elementary school to middle school can be a rough one, but the orientation provided well-versed information that allowed parents to be knowledgeable in their children's educational structure.

"It's a wonderful school to be at," McGovern said to the auditorium crowd. "There are great opportunities [for parents and students alike] to get involved and have a good time."