BROOKLYN, NY –
A. Fantis School in Brooklyn proudly celebrated Greek Independence Day with a vibrant and meaningful program honoring the historic events of 1821 and the enduring values of faith, freedom, and Hellenic heritage.
Held in the school auditorium, the celebration brought together students, faculty, families, and distinguished guests for a morning of performances, reflection, and national pride. The program began with the Greek National Anthem and the Star-Spangled Banner, followed by ecclesiastical hymns, highlighting the deep connection between faith and the Greek independence movement.
Students from Preschool through Grade 2, as well as Grades 4 and 6, participated in a series of performances including poems, songs, and theatrical presentations. Highlights included dramatizations such as The Secret School and The Women of Mani, which illustrated the courage and resilience of the Greek people during the War of Independence. Younger students shared poems celebrating Greek identity and pride, while musical performances filled the auditorium with Greek songs.
The program also reflected the significance of March 25th, which commemorates both Greek Independence and the Feast of the Annunciation, emphasizing themes of faith, courage, and devotion.
A. Fantis School was honored to welcome the Consul of Greece in New York, Petros Dorizas, whose presence underscored the importance of preserving and celebrating Hellenic heritage within the Greek-American community.
Welcoming remarks were delivered by Rev. Evagoras Constantinides, Protopresbyter of the Ecumenical Throne and Dean of Saints Constantine and Helen Cathedral, as well as Evie Dimitriadou, Hellenic Studies Department Chair.
“What our students present today is not merely a performance, but truly an investment in their education”, said Rev. Evagoras Constantinides. He highlighted the many lessons students learn throughout their years at A. Fantis School about Greek culture and heritage, culminating in theGrade 8 senior trip to Greece, where students visit historic landmarks of the Greek Revolution.
“History does not live only in books. It lives in stories, in voices, and in the hearts of those who choose to remember it”, added Ms. Dimitriadou, focusing on the effort the students put into producing an excellent result.
The celebration concluded with reflections from Principal Theodore G. Tasoulas and School Executive Board Member Dr. Panagiota Tampakis, reaffirming the school’s commitment to academic excellence, cultural identity, and faith-based education.
“This celebration is a powerful reminder of who we are”, said Principal Tasoulas. “At A. Fantis School, we are proud to instill in our students a deep appreciation for their heritage, while preparing them to become thoughtful and engaged members of society”.
This celebration would not have been possible without the guidance of Evie Dimitriadou, Lead of the Hellenic Studies Department, Theodore Alvanos, Music Director, and Matina Demeli, Early Childhood Greek Teacher, as well as, Vangelis Chaziroglou, Greek Teacher, who composed the second-grade play and designed the set, and Cait Henneberry, Art Teacher, who brought it to life.
The dedication of the Preschool and Elementary School teachers, A. Fantis staff, and volunteers made this a truly memorable day, the School emphasized in a statement.
About A. Fantis School
A. Fantis School is a top 1% ranked PreK–8 Greek Orthodox school in Brooklyn Heights, founded by Saints Constantine & Helen Cathedral over sixty years ago. The school blends rigorous academics with a Paideia/Socratic approach, Greek heritage, and Christian values, guiding students in character and scholarship toward success in New York City’s most competitive
