Saint Demetrios “Rev. Nikiforos Fakinos” Hellenic School
Panagiota Perlegis (Columbia University Graduate, Administration & Principal)
Thomas Zervas (President); Triantafilos Tzaras (Treasurer)
Preserving Our Language. Celebrating Our Faith. Sharing Our Heritage.
Our Greek Language Program is more than a school—it is a place where our children grow in their knowledge of the Greek language while developing a lifelong connection to their faith, heritage, culture, and community.
Serving students from Pre-K through Regents / Ellinomatheia (the official global certificate of Greek language proficiency) level, our program provides a comprehensive and engaging education in Greek language and grammar, history, Orthodox Christian faith and traditions, and traditional Greek dance. Through classroom instruction, cultural celebrations, performances, and parish life, students experience Hellenism in a meaningful way that extends far beyond the classroom.
Our dedicated educators are experienced and certified Greek language instructors who continually strengthen their teaching through professional development opportunities offered by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Their commitment helps ensure that our students receive high-quality instruction while developing confidence in speaking, reading, writing, and understanding the Greek language.
At the heart of our program is a strong sense of family and community. Our School Board, PTA, teachers, parents, parish leadership, and volunteers work together to create memorable experiences for our students while supporting charitable initiatives and strengthening the bonds that unite our parish.
Throughout the school year, students proudly participate in many of the traditions and celebrations that bring our Greek Orthodox faith and heritage to life, including the Aghiasmos (Blessing of the School Year), OXI Day, Christmas celebrations, Three Hierarchs Day, Greek Independence Day, and our annual Graduation and Moving Up Ceremony.
We also celebrate and encourage academic achievement. Students who demonstrate excellence in Greek language, history, and cultural studies have opportunities to receive awards, recognition, and scholarships for their accomplishments.
Our Greek dance program gives students another exciting way to celebrate their heritage, build friendships, and represent our community. Our dancers proudly perform at parish and community events, including our annual Parish Festival, sharing the music, traditions, and spirit of Greece with generations of families and visitors.
With the continued guidance and involvement of our parish leadership—including regular visits with our students and teachers—our Greek Language Program provides a welcoming and enriching environment where children can learn the language of their heritage, deepen their connection to their faith, celebrate their culture, and create friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.
We invite families throughout our parish and surrounding community to become part of our Greek School family and help us continue passing our cherished language, faith, traditions, and Hellenic heritage from one generation to the next.
