Saint Demetrios
Schools are one of the most important institutions for the Hellenic community. Many Greeks choose to send their children to a school that is Greek Orthodox affiliated that way their children are learning not only the New York State curriculum, but also Greek language, culture, history, and customs. With the fear of having the next generation lose ties to their heritage, parochial schools ensure children are exposed to both American and Greek curriculum and culture.
“Until now, we knew that Greeks were fighting like heroes; from now on we shall say that the heroes fight like Greeks.” -Prime Minister of Britain, Winston Churchill, 1940
Due to the high population of Greeks in Astoria, Queens, there are many parochial or Green Orthodox affiliated schools. Astoria’s St. Demetrios is a private, coed school currently serving approximately 600 students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The head of the school is Mr. Anastasios Koularmanis. On our class trip to Astoria, we visited St. Demetrios lower elementary school which includes pre-kindergarten to third grade. Founded in 1956, this school prides themselves on providing a holistic education reflective of an Orthodox upbringing. Using small classes, they teach Orthodox Christian religion and Hellenic history and culture at this school. We were able to witness the singing of the Greek national anthem by third-grade students in a Greek writing class. We also heard each student’s Greek city of origin, exemplifying his or her understanding of regional pride. Saint Demetrios has a separate building for their middle/high school in Astoria as well.
RECORDING OF ST. DEMETRIOS THIRD GRADERS SINGING GREEK NATIONAL ANTHEM
Or click here to hear the song on Soundcloud.
Bulletin Board for Black History Month
As the elementary school is connected to the Saint Demetrios Cathedral, they join to participate in events such as the church’s annual Greek festival. They also participate in the Greek Independence Day Parade on 5th Avenue in New York City. Saint Demetrios also provides afternoon Greek school for those who go to public school and want to learn the Greek language (reading and writing), Greek dancing, Greek heritage, Greek culture, or religion. Free bus transportation is offered to nearby public schools. This after-school program prides itself on helping students pass the New York State Greek Regents Exam. As Astoria’s diversity is on the rise, there are many parochial, private schools in addition to those associated with Greek Orthodox.1
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