By Cyntia Santos – Staff Reporter

For 20 years, Mr. Bellard has been a loyal, inspiring, and hardworking chemistry teacher at Jonathan Law.

After this year, however, his time in the classroom will come to an end, as he plans to retire.

“I don’t have any plans as of yet (after retirement),” Bellard said.

Bellard started his teaching career in 1990 after he lost his job. He said he always wanted to be a teacher, so he decided to pursue it.

He said that he loves chemistry because chemistry is the basis of all things, and it is easy for him to understand.

His students have enjoyed his passion for science.

“I like Mr. Bellard’s teaching ways,” sophomore Jack Pincus-Coyle said. “I feel like I can learn a lot but have a lot of fun at the same time.”

Bellard chose to teach at the high school level because he likes the way that high school students can interact with one another and become friends. He also likes their energy and their unpredictability.

“I think that Mr. Bellard goes above and beyond and is an amazing teacher, an amazing friend, and he’s always there to help guide anyone, no matter what they need,” junior Abigail Williamson said.

Bellard inspires not only his students, but other faculty members at Law as well.

“Mr. Bellard has really been an asset to Jonathan Law, from the first day I walked into this building, when I first came here he was like a role model for me as a teacher,” said Dean of Students Mr. Ragaini. “I know all the students love Mr. Bellard and he is usually one of the most popular teachers in the school.”

Many memories have been made in Bellard’s classroom that his students won’t forget.

“I like that he’s funny, and he makes me want to learn,” sophomore Irmina Chrzastek said.

Bellard said that he will miss everything about Law, but he will especially miss the kids. He believes that now it is time to move on with the next phase of his life.

“The best thing I can say about my ‘B and B’ brother is it’s just too bad that my son won’t be able to be in his class, I think Mr. Bellard is the best science teacher ever,” business teacher Mr. Beler said.

Bellard has been married for 35 years and has two children and seven grandchildren.

“He will really be missed and I just want to congratulate him on a great career and he will be missed by everyone,” Ragaini said.