FLUSHING – Parents, students, and teachers at the William Spyropoulos School of St. Nicholas in Flushing gathered for the first day of the new school year on September 4. Principal Mary Tzallas who took up her duties only last February, has years of experience at the school and spoke to The National Herald about her work with enthusiasm, “I love our children and teachers very much, and our parents are fantastic. Today is a profound experience.”

She told TNH that this year there are four hundred students, noting that “there are some children who left us because the family moved away, but we also have many new ones that come from public schools and other areas.”

The school includes Nursery to Eighth grade, and has two classes for each level. “We have many parents who were pupils at the school and now bring their children here. We are really like a big family,” Tzallas said.

When asked about those who are reluctant to send their children to a Greek school, she said, “If they want their children to have a very strong Greek-Christian identity and education, that is the school they ought to send their children to. They will become well-rounded people and create friendships that will last for a lifetime. Our students are very happy, and they are admitted to the best schools and can cope with the most challenging programs.”

About the future of the school, Tzallas said it is “bright and brilliant” with her brightest smile.

The PTA was also present on the first day of school with President Rita Nikolaou, Vice President Emily Siderakis, and member Alexia Kontogianis offering coffee, cakes, and sweets to the attendees. “We’re here to help school as much as we can,” they told TNH.

(Photo by TNH/Costas Bej)

(Photo by TNH/Costas Bej)

(Photo by TNH/Costas Bej)

(Photo by TNH/Costas Bej)

(Photo by TNH/Costas Bej)

(Photo by TNH/Costas Bej)