WCP_40926

YEARS

The Westchester County Press 97

“Documenting Our History for the Future.”

VOL. XCVII NO. 15 ISSN 0043-3373 THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2026

“Serving as Superintendent has been one of the greatest honors of my career, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated educators, families and community partners.”

Dr. David Mauricio

PEEKSKILL, NY -- APRIL 7, 2026 -- The Peekskill City School District announced recently that Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Mauricio has submitted his letter of retirement to the Peekskill Board of Education, concluding a distinguished 32-year career in education. His official last day with the District will be December 31, 2026.

“With great sadness, the Board of Education accepts Dr. Mauricio’s request to retire after more than three decades of service to students and families and eight years leading Peekskill Schools,” said Board of Education President Mrs. Jillian Villon. “While we deeply respect his decision, this is not a retirement we had hoped to see so soon. We are sincerely grateful that he has agreed to extend his retirement timeline and continue his service to our district by helping us to navigate a thoughtful leadership transition through December 2026, demonstrating once again his unwavering commitment to our students, staff and community.”

Since joining the Peekskill community in 2018, Dr. Mauricio has led the District through a period of growth, innovation and transformation focused on improving opportunities and outcomes for students.

Under his leadership and with the support of the Board of Education, the District advanced its strategic vision through the “Peekskill Prom-

Superintendent Announces Retirement After More Than Three Decades Serving School Communities

ise”, which emphasizes strong academics, student wellness, family engagement and community partnerships as its foundation.

During Dr. Mauricio’s tenure, the District strengthened academic programming, expanded early childhood education, increased access to STEAM learning, enhanced social-emotional supports, broadened arts and athletics programs and added enrichment opportunities for all students. Other initiatives launched under Dr. Mauricio’s guidance include expanded Dual-Language programs, full day Pre-K for all, monthly Saturday Academy events, and the My Brother’s Keeper/My Sister’s Keep-

er programs.

Significant capital improvements were also completed during his time as Superintendent, transforming facilities across the District. These projects included the development of a STEAM Innovation Center and classrooms, new learning and clinical spaces, an athletic complex at Torpy Field, theater upgrades, new cafeterias and kitchens, enhanced technology infrastructure, new outdoor learning areas, playgrounds, and

SUPERINTENDENT, Cont’d. on page 2

Superintendent Announces Retirement After More Than Three Decades Serving School Communities

the transformation of a former firehouse into a Family Resource Center. Additional capital projects currently underway will add modernized classrooms, a new high school entryway, wellness spaces, solar energy, and sustainable infrastructure improvements

designed to benefit students and the broader community for years to come.

Reflecting on his retirement decision, the Superintendent expressed gratitude to the Board of Education, staff, families, elected officials and community

partners for their collaboration and commitment to student success throughout his time in Peekskill.

“The Peekskill community is defined by its heart, pride and dedication to children,” he shared. “Serving as Superintendent has been one of the greatest honors of my career, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated educators, families and community partners. It has been a wonderful place to raise my family and serve the community. My wife and I will focus on caring for our parents in their golden years.”

The Superintendent will continue to serve in his role through the end of 2026 and will work closely with the Board of Education to support a smooth leadership transition. The Board is expected to begin the process of selecting the District’s next superintendent in the coming months.

After retirement, he plans to remain engaged in community service while dedicating time to his family.

Westchester County Board of Legislators Supports Community-Based Organizations

WHITE PLAINS, NY—Westchester County Legislator Erika L. Pierce (D–Bedford, Lewisboro, Mount Kisco, North Salem, Pound Ridge, Somers) presented $21,600 in County funding to Friends of Karen, a North Salem-based nonprofit that assists families with children facing life-threatening illnesses. Pierce delivered a ceremonial “big check” on behalf of the Board of Legislators, affirming the Board’s commitment to uplift the County’s children and families.

Friends of Karen (FOK) serves families with a child undergoing treatment for cancer or another lifethreatening condition. The 501(c) (3) nonprofit provides critical emotional, financial, and advocacy sup-

port to help families, all at no cost. The County’s 2026 funding will help FOK continue offering psychosocial support, case management, and financial assistance to families who have lost income due to their child’s illness.

Since its founding in 1978, FOK has served the families of nearly 19,000 children. In 2025, nearly a third of the families served had an income below poverty level and 52% had an annual income of $50,000 or less. The need for these is families is acute, particularly as the cost of essentials such as food and medicine continues to rise. FOK provides criti-

Cont’d. on page 11

County Youth Bureau and Youth Board Hosted Annual Sheroes Awards–Celebrating Incredible Women

WHITE PLAINS, NY -- In honor of Women’s History Month, the Westchester County Youth Bureau and Youth Board proudly hosted it’s annual Sheroes Awards–celebrating incredible women who are making a lasting impact on children, youth, and families across Westchester County.

This year, the Bureau and the Board recognized three outstanding leaders: Sade Gilcrest, YMCA of Yonkers, Kerry Whenlan-Megley, Family Ties of Westchester, and Tiffany S.W. Hamilton, YWCA White Plains and Central Westchester.

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins shared: “The Sheroes Awards celebrate women whose leadership and dedication strengthen our communities, inspire future generations, and elevate the importance of supporting youth and families.”

Youth Bureau Executive Di-

rector Ernest McFadden added: “During Women’s History Month, we honor women who uplift and empower young people. These honorees exemplify the impact of collaboration and service in our community.”

Youth Board Chair Dr. Alexandria Connally reminded us: “Sheroes are more than achievers–they are courageous, resilient trailblazers shaping the future and lifting others as they rise.”

Congratulations again to our 2026 Sheroes Award recipients.

Letter to the Editor: Greenburgh Mentoring Program Next Speaker Kenny Herzog

April 16 at 7 PM open to all

Dear Editor:

A few months ago I announced plans to mentor young people who are in their 20s and 30s who want to become future leaders of our town. We meet monthly by zoom. The mentoring program is open to Democrats, Republicans -anyone who wants to learn how to make a positive difference in public service. We don’t discuss local political issues or campaigns- but provide tips on how to become effective advocates and how to get involved in the political processes. Each month we hear from different speakers. Our most recent speaker was Luke Powell, the Governor’s regional representative, and a former deputy regional director for US Senator Chuck Schumer.

The

Westchester County Press

(ISSN 0043-3373) is published weekly on Thursday in White Plains, New York. Copies: 40¢. Yearly Subscription: $25.00, two years: $45.00. National Advertising representative: National Newspaper Publishers Association. Local and national advertising rates on request. Paper founded August 1, 1928 to serve the County of Westchester, New York.

Sandra T. Blackwell President, Publisher & Editor

Carolyn B. Coleman Vice President

Alyce T. Coleman Executive Editor

Bruce L. Bozeman, Esq. Legal Counsel

Celeste Coleman-Housey, Ed.D. Art Director/Managing Editor

Editorial & Advertising Offices P.O. Box 152 White Plains, NY 10602 Telephone:(914) 953-2620

Member: National Newspaper Publishers Association

On April 16th at 7 PM we will hear from Tarrytown Village Trustee Kenny Herzog, an aide to Legislator David Imamura. Kenny has also been involved in the Covid Angels program and a program he started #VaxupWestchester. Kenny also volunteered for the Greenburgh snow angels program. He will talk about his public service activities and activism.

If you would like to join our mentoring program and be invited to attend all future sessions, please e mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny. com. Although the program is designed to encourage young people in their 20s and 30s to get involved – it is open to older residents as well. Who knows—one of the participants may one day be Governor of NY. A US Senator or future Town Supervisor.

PAUL FEINER

Greenburgh Town Supervisor

P.S. Stay informed. Sign up for email alerts about the Town of Greenburgh by clicking https:// www.greenburghny.com/list.aspx There is a new “Public Hearings Alert” solely to notify you of all public hearings scheduled by the Greenburgh Town Board, Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals. Enter your email address and click on “Public Hearings Alert” on the list to get the public hearing alerts.

By Alexis Taylor, AFRO Managing Editor

THE AFRO — The Black Press has sustained itself, keeping the mission alive even when faced with a variety of weapons formed against it. Early Black media professionals faced intimidation, sabotage and even death for the words and images they printed. The AFRO, for example, was founded August 13,1892 just months after The Free Speech and Headlight, a publication coowned by teacher and activist Ida B. Wells, was burned to the ground on May 27, 1892.

Emerging on March 16, 1827, with the debut of “Freedom’s Journal,” the Black Press was started by the intellect, hard work, and courage of John Russworm and Rev. Samuel Cornish.

Though Russworm was born in Jamaica in 1799 and Cornish was a free man born to free parents in Delaware in 1795, the two began their endeavor with one top goal in mind.

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“We wish to plead our own cause,” they proclaimed together, in the first edition of the publication. “Too long have others spoken for us. Too long has the public been deceived by misrepresentations, in things which concern us dearly…”

Shown here is a copy of the first Black newspaper, “Freedom’s Journal.” The four-column offering, created in New York City by John Russwurm and Samuel Cornish, was first published on March 16, 1827. Credit: Image courtesy of the Library of Congress.

The Black Press has sustained it-

self, keeping the mission alive even when faced with a variety of weapons formed against it. Early Black media professionals faced intimidation, sabotage, and even death for the words and images they printed. The AFRO, for example, was founded on August 13, 1892, just months after The Free Speech and Headlight, a publication co-owned by teacher and activist Ida B. Wells, was burned to the ground on May 27, 1892.

In the 1940’s, dozens of Black papers, including The Baltimore AFRO, were surveilled by FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover, who desperately wanted to charge members of the Black Press with sedition or anything he could for informing and organizing Black people to make change.

Now, 199 years later, journalists, editors, publishers, photographers, and media professionals at large fight daily on behalf of Black communities for justice and equality, record Black history, entertain the masses, and moderate policy and social discussions focused on change. Today’s Black newspapers are working to keep up with consumer trends and integrate technology as it evolves. Though many things have changed for the Black Press, some– like government-sanctioned divestment–have remained the same.

“The issues of today really have not changed. They’ve changed in how we report, but we are still dealing with inequities. We’re still dealing with racism. We’re still dealing with a higher proportion of certain diseases impacting our community,” said Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, AFRO News Publisher and CEO. “We’re still dealing not only with the

STEAM Academy students learn about the world of law through Mock Trial

MOUNT VERNON, N.Y. (April 8, 2026) —Mount Vernon STEAM Academy’s Mock Trial team finished their second year competing across Westchester County strong, placing eighth overall while gaining real-world skills, confidence and a deeper understanding of the justice system.

Mock Trial competitions challenge students to analyze legal cases prepared by the state program and argue them before real judges and legal professionals, offering an authentic courtroom experience that extends beyond the classroom.

Senior DanaMarie Galindo, co-founder, was inspired to start the club so her and her classmates can further discover their passion for law. “I just created the club for people to actually practice their public speaking, to see if they’re actually interested in law,” she said.

The program is advised by English teacher Ashley Wallace, and mentored by Corporation Counsel for the City of Mount Vernon Brian G. Johnson. Mr. Johnson serves as the team’s rep-

resenting attorney, guiding students through case strategies, courtroom procedures and legal reasoning.

Mr. Johnson advises students and provides feedback to them before trials against other schools. Many students practice and prepare at home, while collaborating after school. Mr. Johnson was eager to mentor students, having such positive mentors throughout his career

“I love people excited about the law and having an experience in the courtroom,” Mr. Johnson said. “This is so fulfilling for me, being able to give back. I had a lot of great mentors, and so giving back is really important for me.”

STEAM Academy’s Mock Trial team excelled during their first preliminary round of the New York State High School Mock Trial Competition held at Westchester County Courthouse. The team opened the competition, presenting the defense side of the case.

Defense attorneys included sophomore Vidhi Goel and seniors

Zachary Cotto and Madyson Powell, while witnesses, freshman Leia Forman and sophomore Isabel Nava Ferreira, delivered testimony. Senior Tatiana Santiful served as a timekeeper, and sophomore Alana Diggs portrayed the defendant, helping bring the courtroom simulation to life.

Following their strong performance in the preliminary rounds, the team continued their impressive run, advancing into the top 16 and ultimately earning a place among the top eight teams in Westchester County.

“I think overall the season went a lot better. You can hear and see the differences in maturity from last year first going into a courtroom,” Zachary said, “The overall court presence was different. We kind of took more control of the courtroom.”

Competing against the region’s most competitive programs, students were recognized for their outstanding achievements during a ceremony at STEAM Academy with Mr. Johnson, Ms. Wallace,

Cont’d. on page 11

Black Press Celebrates Ties to Black Church in Annual Sunday Service

By Alexis Taylor, AFRO Managing Editor

miseducation of the Negro– but the undereducation, as people seek to pull out books and other things from schools.”

“Those things are important, and it’s important to advocate,” said Draper. “The economic issues are still there. The inequities are everywhere.”

In 2026, Draper said members of the Black Press are tasked with covering local, national, and international news with a Black angle that matters to the Black community.

“Black consumers have some unique interests and unique challenges that you don’t expect the mainstream press to cover–they can’t–that’s why it’s important to have Black-owned press,” said Draper.

Washington Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes said those who take up the fight for the Black Press today can draw strength from those who overcame the challenges of the past.

“They’ve basically laid a road map for us. We just have to stay strong, committed, and dedicated to make sure that we are passing the baton along to others who understand and appreciate the value that we give to our community,” said Barnes. “As long as we don’t forget the mission and we keep reflecting on our ancestors and the work that they did, I think going forward is not as heavy a burden as we feel that it might be today.”

The two publishers came together almost 199 years to the day of the Black Press’ founding for Black Press Sunday, which preceded the Black Press Week celebration held from March 16 to March 20. The service was held in Washington, D.C., on March 15 at Metropolitan AME Church. Each year, the occasion represents the strong tie between the Black Church and the publications that worked hand in hand with faith institutions to inform and uplift the Black community.

“There is a symbiotic relationship between the Black Press and the Black Church because every-

thing the Black Church has done–for good or for ill– the Black Press has reported,” said Rev. William H. Lamar IV, Metropolitan AME pastor. “They have shared where we have been at our best, fighting for justice, equity, in-

clusion, beauty, and they have shared what we’ve been at our worst. And all of it has to be recorded.”

“The Black Press also helped to move us ahead politically when the radical Black folks were saying, ‘Y’all

Black Press Celebrates Ties to Black Church in Annual Sunday Service

By Alexis Taylor, AFRO Managing Editor

need to do what’s right, or we’re going to burn this down,’ and the more moderate people were saying, ‘We will play within the confines of the system.’ The Black Press held us together ideologically, politically, and socially. There is no healthy Black Church without a healthy Black Press, because both are called to the vocation of truth-telling.”

This year, the sermon focused on how Biblical Prophet Elijah prepared his successor, Elisha, to step into his shoes. Lamar encouraged Black media professionals to train up the next generation so well that they can proudly step up and carry on the Black Press no matter what comes their way.

Philip Lewis, president of the Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ), said he was heartened by the message.

“I know we’re on the right path by making sure that students are doing what they need to do to become the next journalists. I’m excited about it,” said Philip Lewis, president of the Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ). ”WABJ is in a unique position, especially in the nation’s capital, to advocate and support our journalists and continue to grow.”

“The Black Press is just as important today as it was 199 years ago,” he continued. “And even in the most extremely fractured time…I think it’s important that we have our own spaces where we can focus on stories that we care about. It’s important for us to be able to plead our own cause.”

As the Black Press Sunday festivities came to a close, Draper reflected on what her own ancestors would say if they could see the Black Press at 199 years.

“I think our ancestors, first of all, would say, ‘Wow, 199 years. That’s a long time.’ We celebrate the 1827 founding of Freedom’s Journal, and while it didn’t last but a few years or so, the impact was immeasurable,” she said. “I think the ancestors would say, ‘Look what has survived with a few resources.’

“If they could do it with a few resources, I think they would tell us, ‘Don’t complain about what you don’t have–use what you do. You might not be able to tell every story, but whatever story you tell, tell it well, make sure that it has an impact and that you’re doing something to really uplift and inform the community.’”

LEGISLATORS,

Cont’d. from page 2

cal emotional, financial, and advocacy support to help families remain stable during extraordinarily difficult circumstances.

Legislator Erika Pierce said, “Friends of Karen provides critical support to families facing the unthinkable. With the benefit of decades of experience, their trained staff assists families as they try to negotiate the medical system, providing mental health supports, camp scholarships, school supplies, and other daily needs, including rent and transportation, for the entire family, often for many years. Their efforts can keep a family from losing their home and allow them the space to celebrate holidays and other family milestones. We are grateful for them and the work they do and thrilled to partner with them in these efforts.”

Executive Director Stefanie Ortiz-Cidlik said, “We are deeply thankful to Legislator Pierce for recognizing that medical care is only one part of a family’s journey when facing a child’s life-threatening illness. This support means that families can focus entirely on their child’s health rather than the fear of losing their home or falling behind on bills. With a Friends of Karen social worker by their side, they gain a compassionate partner to help carry the weight of an unimaginably difficult time.”

To apply for help from Friends of Karen, the parent or guardian of a child with a life-threatening illness should call Friends of Karen call the Family Support Team at (914) 617-4057. More information can be found at the Friends of Karen website: friendsofkaren.org.

MOCK TRIAL,

Cont’d. from page 5

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Demario Strickland, and Assistant Principal Anjanette Brown.

During this, Ms. Wallace praised students for their hard work and dedication throughout the season, emphasizing her delight of seeing students develop a passion for law through the program.

“I was so happy to be their advisor and I’m very, very proud of them,” she said. “This is a wonderful group of students, and I know if I ever get in trouble, I have many lawyers.”

Students showed their appreciation towards Mr. Johnson and all that he has done to help guide them by giving him a plaque and a thank you card to share their gratitude.

With the season coming to an end, students are full STEAM ahead, building momentum for future competitions next year.

CALENDAR,

Cont’d. from page 14

Sunday, April 26

Race Amity of Northern Westchester and Putnam is very pleased to partner with members of the Yorktown/Somers Interfaith Council to offer this special program “Supporting Our Immigrant Neighbors” on Sunday, April 26th at 2:00 at the First Presbyterian Church of Yorktown, 2880 Crompond Road in Yorktown. Please RSVP here: tinyurl.com/ yc83eef2. Refreshments will be served Discussion will follow the presentation. We welcome you to come learn with our community!

In amity, The Steering Committee of RANWP

Friday,

May 1

May 1st - Law Day! The Rule of Law And the American Dream. In the month of May, Courts, Judges, Law clerks, Court officers, Police officers and local practicing attorneys will engage students in grades 9-12 and discuss their role in our legal system. This year the Peekskill City Court, Peekskill Police Department and the NAACP, Peekskill Branch #2170 will be celebrating Law Day at the courthouse located at: 2 Nelson Avenue, Peekskill NY from 12-2 p.m.

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Serving Metro-New York and Westchester County

PRACTICE AREAS

RELIGIOUS /NON-PROFIT (Administration & Tax Status) REAL ESTATE (Residential and Commercial)

FAMILY (Adoption)

WILLS/TRUSTS/ESTATES (Guardianship and Elderlaw)

BUSINESS LAW (Corporations & Partnerships & Limited Liability Corporation)

*Bruce L. Bozeman, Esq., * Carla Lewis-Burnett, Esq. John S. Savage, Esq. ~ of counsel, Leticia Arzu, Esq.

*Principals of the firm serve as seminar speakers, upon request.

Appointments Preferred.

Community Calendar

CALENDAR SUBMISSION: Please use a brief paragraph to describe your event. The paragraph should include event name, date(s), time, location and contact information. Send calendar information via email to westchestercountypress@yahoo.com. Please type “CALENDAR EVENT” in the subject bar

Thursday, April 9

Westchester County Fair Housing Board Meeting will be held on Thursday, April 9 at 6 p.m., in the Human Rights Commission Conference Room, 112 East Post Road, 3rd Floor, White Plains, NY 10601. Members of the public may view this meeting online at: meetings.westchestercountyny.gov

Thursday, April 9

Westchester County Human Rights Commission Board Meeting on Thursday, April 9 at 6:45pm in the Human Rights Commission Conference Room. 112 East Post Road, 3rd Floor in White Plains, NY 10601 Members of the public may view this meeting online at: meetings.westchestercountyny. gov

Saturday, April 11-

The Laymen’s Auxiliary of the Central Hudson Baptist Association invites you to join in honoring a few “Men of Integrity” from within our Hudson Valley and surrounding communities. The 15th Annual “Men of Integrity Banquet” which celebrates men with a “heart to serve their church and community”, will be held at the Villa Borghese, located at 70 Widmere Place, Wappingers Falls, N. Y. Doors open at 11:30am. Tickets are $75 for adults, $50 for youth (12 and under). For tickets and information please contact Rev. William Wallker at 914-582-2090 or the Event Chairman, Deacon Jermaine Garrant at (914) 439-1795. ALL ARE WELCOME

Sunday, April 12,

From 2:00 - 5:00 PM at the Old Dutch Church, 272 Wall St., Kingston. Screening of “Jenin’s Freedom Theatre,” a film about actors who put their safety at risk in order to envision a future beyond Israeli occupation. Includes live interview with General Manager Mustafa Sheta. Free admission and community reflection/discussion after the film.

Sponsored by: Middle East Crisis Response mideastcrisis.org and cosponsored by African Roots Community Center, Columbia County for Palestine, JVP Hudson Valley, Mid Hudson Valley DSA, Muslims4Muslims International, New Paltz Quaker Meeting, Peace Education Center, Rally Middletown, Veterans For Peace, and Women In Black - New Paltz. Contact: mecr@mideastcrisis. org or 845 876-7906

Saturday, April 18

The New Rochelle Royal Ladies Red Hats are hosting a bus and orchestra seating to the Dance Theatre of Harlem at NYC City Center, 7:30PM performance. Join us. Tickets are $150 (use Zelle). Contact Sylvia Reid (914-6205066) or Andra Adamson (914267-5841) for details.

Saturday, April

18

We are pleased to announce “Small Steps to an Unshakable You - An Author Talk with Lourdes Laifer”. Spend the afternoon on April 18th at 1pm with author & certified Life Coach Lourdes Laifer; exploring practical tools for resilience through mindfulness, positive psychology, and Stoic Wisdom. Hosted at the Barnes & Noble in the Cortlandt Town Center, 3089 E Main Street, Mohegan Lake, NY. Please contact jules@lourdeslaifercoaching. com with any questions.

Saturday, April 18

The American Academy of Pediatrics Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health invites teens (ages 14-19) to participate in Beyond the Likes - Social Media, Mental Health & You, a free virtual youth forum on Saturday, April 18, from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm ET. This interactive event will empower young people to navigate the digital world with confidence, engage in meaningful conversations with peers and ex-

perts, and gain practical tools for managing their digital lives. Earn a Certificate of Completion and get a chance to win prizes! Clubs and organizations whose members participate in the forum may be eligible for a small stipend; interested groups can contact Marija Hegel at mhegel@aap.org for more information. Register today to take part in this exciting event: https://us06web.zoom.us/ meeting/register/Mgqi6obwT9ibgSA7Ut6-vw#/registration.

Tuesday, April 21

Westchester County Youth Bureau will be hosting a Hudson Valley MBK Summit for approximately 400 high school MBK students from districts across the region. Please join us for the My Brother’s Keeper Alliance Hudson Valley Leadership Summit on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 from 8:30am to 1:30pm at The Westchester County Center.

Thursday, April 23

The Greater Hudson Valley (NY) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, in partnership with The Society, Incorporated – Renaissance Chapter and the Women’s Leadership Institute, will host a screening of the documentary “Satisfied,” starring Renée Elise Goldsberry of Hamilton, on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at New York Covenant Church, 500 Main Street, New Rochelle. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. with the film beginning at 6:30 p.m., followed by a panel discussion titled “Dispelling the Myths of the Superwoman.” Tickets: Early Bird 2-for-1 ($50) through April 12; General Admission $30. Register on Eventbrite Link: https://ghvsatisfiedfilmscreening. eventbrite.com/

Thru Sunday, April 26

Protean Core: March 19 - April 26, 2026 | Reception: March 19,

6-8 pm On View at Pelham Art Center, Curated by Neptune in June. Open: Mon - Fri (9am5pm), Sat - Sun (10am - 4pm), 155 5th Avenue, Pelham, NY 10803 Naomi Chambers’ site-specific installations invite healing through play, weaving a ectionately elastic community bonds. She exalts found objects to bring the everyday stories and experiences of Black culture and motherhood into environments of care. Through painting, casting, and bedazzling, Chambers’ spaces tell perennial stories of nourishment and resilience. www.neptuneinjune.com | info@neptuneinjune. com IG: @neptuneinjune.ny. info@pelhamartcenter.org

Sunday, April 26

2:15pm to 3:45pm on Sunday, April 26th at the Westchester County Center in White Plains, NY. Connecting Rights of Nature, Leachate and Waste Incineration: Learn, Explore, Join with Three Environmental Groups in Working Towards A Flourishing Hudson River Valley Ecosystem We humans make our homes within ecosystems and depend on water bodies and ecosystems for our own health and survival. Learn and explore with three organizations WASS (Westchester Alliance for Sustainable Solutions), New York River Watch and ROAR (Religious Organizations Along the River) the environmental issues we face, ways to advocate, and how a rights of nature bill in NYS would allow the ecosystems, of which we are apart, to exist and flourish. Come with curiosity and questions. RSVPs are required to attend: https://forms. gle/AfUsYvyDEK7HhosR6

CALENDAR, Cont’d on page 11

Environmental Leaders of Color Launches SAT Prep Pilot Program, Opening New Doors for Local Students

SAT Prep Pilot Program to Support College-Bound Students

Environmental Leaders of Color (ELOC), a Mount Vernon–based nonprofit known for empowering young people through academic and workforce development programs, has taken another meaningful step toward expanding educational opportunity. This spring, the organization launched a pilot SAT prep initiative designed to support students preparing for one of the most influential components of the college admissions process.

For years, ELOC has worked with high school students across a wide spectrum—those uncertain about pursuing college and those determined to continue their education after graduation. The new SAT prep program builds on that mission by offering targeted academic support to students who want to strengthen their college applications.

A Strategic Partnership for Student Success

To bring the pilot to life, ELOC partnered with a local SAT preparation firm and selected three motivated students to participate. Two students came from ELOC’s SEA (Science, Engineering, and Arts) program, and one from the Advanced Computer Program. Over the course of eight weeks, these students received focused instruction in math, reading, and writing—the core areas tested on the SAT.

Although many colleges have adopted test-optional policies, ELOC recognizes that standardized test scores still play a significant role at numerous competitive institutions. By offering structured preparation, the organization aims to ensure that students who choose to submit Tscores are equipped to do so confidently.

By Dr. Diana K. Williams

Parents as Partners

One of the defining features of the pilot program is ELOC’s emphasis on parental involvement. The organization has long understood that when families are engaged, students thrive. Throughout the program, parents were encouraged to attend informational meetings, help establish study routines at home, and stay actively involved in their child’s progress.

This family-centered approach not only strengthens academic outcomes but also reinforces the support systems students rely on as they navigate the path to college.

Promising Early Results

The pilot has already produced encouraging outcomes. Some students improved their SAT scores by as much as 300 points—a remarkable gain that underscores both the students’ dedication and the effectiveness of the program’s structure.

Inspired by these results, ELOC is exploring plans to expand the SAT prep offering to include students in grades 9 through 11 during the

upcoming summer session. By reaching students earlier, the organization hopes to build long-term academic confidence and reduce the stress often associated with college preparation.

Looking Ahead

As the pilot concludes, ELOC remains committed to broadening access to educational opportunities. Whether students choose to pursue college or enter the workforce, the organization continues to invest in programs that help them reach their full potential.

The SAT may not be required everywhere, but for many students—especially those applying to selective institutions—strong preparation can open doors. Through initiatives like this pilot program, ELOC is ensuring that young people and their families have the tools, support, and encouragement they need to take the next step in their academic journeys.

Looking Toward a Bigger Future

Buoyed by the success of the pilot, ELOC is now exploring ways to expand the program this summer to include students in grades 9 through 11. The goal is to reach students earlier, long before the pressure of college applications sets in.

“Preparation shouldn’t start junior year,” an ELOC staff member explained. “It should start when students are still discovering who they are and what they want.”

By offering SAT prep earlier, ELOC hopes to build academic confidence, reduce stress, and give students—especially those from underrepresented communities— a stronger foundation.