The South Country School District is pleased to announce that over 95% of Bellport High School graduates earned a prestigious New York State Seal of Civic Readiness on their diplomas.

Students were presented with the opportunity to earn the seal after the high school was accepted in 2021 as a pilot school for the New York State Education Department’s Seal of Civic Readiness program following an extensive application process led by Director of Humanities Jaclyn O'Hagan and high school social studies teacher Andrew Budris.

The students earned the seal through the school’s work with the pilot program and a partnership between teachers, administrators, students and NYSED. This broad participation was accomplished by including all students in the program, from general education and special education to English as a New Language and Advanced Placement students.

The Civic Readiness initiative has students work toward a common goal to better their school and community. They select issues, conduct research and present their findings during a culminating Civics Day presentation to their peers, teachers and Board of Education members. Projects have included improving mental health services for students, asking for county government to improve the walkability and cleanliness of roadways, obtaining grants for music and sports participation at the elementary level, and adding recess for middle school students. The program also shapes students to become citizens who form their own opinions and take action to serve their community.

Date Added: 7/18/2022