Exploring Careers in Financial Law: Students Visit Barclays for an Enlightening Legal Experience!
On Thursday, April 24, a group of high school students from The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology stepped into the professional world of financial law with a visit to Barclays—a leading global financial services provider. The visit, held at the company’s New York office, offered a unique opportunity for students to learn directly from experienced legal professionals about the dynamic intersections of law, finance, and global policy. The experience highlighted Arete’s commitment to career connected learning and offering students exposure to diverse career pathways.
The visit kicked off with a warm welcome and pizza, giving students a chance to settle in before diving into an exciting lineup of presentations. Sheri Levine-Shea and Virginia “Ginny” Hildreth, two Financial Crime Lawyers at Barclays presented real-world case studies involving money laundering and fraud, walking students through the intricacies of compliance, due diligence, and cross-border investigations. Their discussion emphasized the global nature of financial crime and how international regulations shape the legal work they do.
Next, Felix Dubosse, a Litigation Attorney at Barclays, gave an insightful presentation on managing complex legal disputes in the financial sector. He highlighted the litigation process, emphasizing legal research, negotiation skills, and risk mitigation. Students learned how legal teams prepare for cases that span multiple jurisdictions and how firms like Barclays navigate the challenges of a fast-paced, high-stakes environment. To wrap up the visit, Barclays team member and Areté Board Treasurer Jared Steller chatted with the students and led a brief tour of the building. This offered a glimpse into daily life at a major financial institution.
Throughout the visit, students were highly engaged, asking thoughtful questions and diving into lively discussions sparked by the case examples presented. It was an eye-opening experience for the students as they gain a deeper understanding of how legal professionals must not only understand the law but also navigate financial systems, international regulations, digital currencies, and cybersecurity. The visit also emphasized how success in this field depends on critical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to adapt within the industry.
Celebrating Connection and Achievement at the BioQuest Graduation & Family Science Day!
On Saturday, April 12, our students and families from The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology gathered for the BioQuest Graduation and Family Science Day at the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City. The event marked the culmination of a year of exploration, growth, and community through the BioQuest program, in partnership with RTW Foundation!
The day began with excitement as mentors and mentees paired up to explore exhibits and partake in a museum-wide scavenger hunt. From the outer reaches of space to the depths of the human brain, teams explored the museum, learning and bonding over the various facets of science.
Following the scientific museum, attendees gathered for a heartwarming graduation ceremony, recognizing the accomplishments of each BioQuest participant. The room filled with smiles and cheers as mentees received their certificates and mentors were celebrated for their commitment and guidance.
Families, students, and staff came together as a community, celebrating not just academic milestones, but the deep relationships and lasting inspiration that BioQuest provides for our students!
BioQuest Trip with Weill Cornell Inspires Future Innovators in Public Health
On Thursday, March 13, students took a deep dive into the fields of immunology and public health, held in collaboration with the Tri-Institution Minority Society graduate students at Weill Cornell. The event challenged students to think critically about pressing public health concerns and develop innovative solutions alongside graduate students and mentors.
The day’s activities culminated in a dynamic Shark Tank-style pitch competition. Students formed small groups to brainstorm and design health-changing products, ranging from mobile applications and wearable devices to artificial intelligence-powered solutions. Guided by their mentors, they refined their ideas and crafted persuasive presentations to showcase their concepts. Each team then pitched their product to an audience of peers and mentors, who acted as investors. The students strategically allocated their investments to the ideas they found most promising. The team that secured the most investments emerged as the winner and received a prize.
By working closely with graduate students from Weill Cornell, our students gained valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the healthcare field, equipping them with knowledge and inspiration to pursue future careers in STEM and public health!
Career Day at the Laboratory School of Finance and Technology: Inspiring Future Leaders!
On February 7, The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology hosted a Career Day, welcoming 26 professionals from diverse industries to share their expertise and life experiences with students. This event ignited curiosity and provided invaluable insights that will help shape the future paths of many students.
Professionals from industries including science, finance, entertainment, law, technology and education dedicated their time to engage with students. Each speaker shared their unique career journey, offering students a glimpse into the possibilities ahead. Some of the notable professions represented included:
- Sciences & Environmental Stewardship: Employees from the NY Aquarium, NYC DEP, the Wildlife Conservation Society, and the New York Botanical Garden highlighted careers in environmental conservation and scientific research.
- Technology & AI: Experts from Morgan Stanley and Obzerv.ai provided insight into the rapidly evolving fields of AI, user experience design, and finance technology.
- Legal & Advocacy: Professionals from Bronx Defenders and Immigrant Justice Corps spoke about the importance of community engagement, advocacy, and legal services.
- Entertainment & Arts: An actor from Back to the Future on Broadway, a visual artist from Leo Lopez Art & Design, and the CEO of Billionaire Comedy LLC shared their experiences in creative industries.
- Healthcare & Mental Health: Representatives from Columbia University and the Soho Center for Mental Health Counseling discussed careers in medical research, global health, and behavioral therapy.
- Finance & Business: Executives from JP Morgan, CohnReznick, and Red Talisman LLC (American Express) provided insight into finance and corporate leadership.
- Military & Law Enforcement: A Major from the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves, who also serves as a police officer, educated students on balancing a military career with civilian employment.
More than just a series of presentations, this event fostered meaningful dialogue between students and professionals. Students were encouraged to actively engage, ask questions, and explore potential career paths. Many of the professionals expressed a willingness to continue mentoring students, strengthening the school’s network of support and opportunity.
Among the dedicated volunteers was Major Deivy Martinez, who serves in the Marine Corps Reserves while working full-time as a police officer with the New Rochelle Police Department. Reflecting on the event, Major Martinez shared:
Highlight of the Event: "Being able to educate children on opportunities within the military reserve component."
Why Volunteer? "To help children understand they can serve in the military (in the reserves) at the same time as having a ‘normal’ day-to-day job."
The success of this year’s Career Day underscores the importance of industry partnerships in education. We look forward to expanding these connections through internships, mentorship programs, and additional networking opportunities that will continue to empower students as they prepare for their futures. Thank you to all our guest speakers who took the time to inspire and guide the next generation of professionals!
Black History Month Wax Museum: Celebrating the Harlem Renaissance in Style!
On February 26, students and staff at P.S. 59: The Dawn Best School experienced the magic of the Harlem Renaissance at this year’s Black History Month Wax Museum! This special event brought history to life as students and families celebrate the cultural variety of Black artistry, music, and literature that defined the 1920s.
Students didn’t just learn about Black history—they embodied it! They transformed into some of the most influential figures of the Harlem Renaissance, honoring their impact in a unique and interactive way.
- 3rd Grade: Focused on legendary musicians of the Harlem Renaissance, bringing the sounds of jazz and blues to life.
- 4th Grade: Showcased iconic poets and writers, sharing the words and wisdom that shaped a generation.
- 5th Grade: Highlighted the comedians and actors who brought joy and entertainment to the era.
Adding to the excitement, families were invited to dress in 1920s fashion, making the event even more immersive. From flapper dresses and pearls to fedoras and suspenders, the crowd was a stunning reflection of the Harlem Renaissance era. The event also featured an incredible lineup of performances that captured the energy and creativity of the 1920s, including live singing and dynamic dance performances.
The Black History Month Wax Museum was an insightful session demonstrating the enduring influence of the Harlem Renaissance. The event left students and families inspired, engaged, and proud to celebrate the rich legacy of Black artistry and culture. Thank you to all the students, families, and staff who participated and helped make this event a memorable success!
P.S. 59 Celebrates World Read Aloud Day with Special Guest Author!
On February 5, 2025, P.S. 59: The Dawn Best School, celebrated World Read Aloud Day with a special visit from children's book author Alicia Brown, LMSW. Ms. Brown read her story, The Boy Named Ed, to students in Kindergarten through 2nd grade, sharing an engaging read-aloud experience that fosters a love for literacy.
World Read Aloud Day is a global event that promotes the joy of reading and the power of storytelling, encouraging children to experience the joy of books. P.S. 59 embraced this mission by welcoming Ms. Brown, whose work focuses on trauma-informed care. The Boy Named Ed follows the journey of a young boy grappling with fear and emotions after an unexpected hurricane. With the guidance of his grandmother, Ed learns resilience and the importance of speaking up about his feelings—an empowering message for young readers. In addition to the read-aloud session, students had the opportunity to interact with Ms. Brown, ask questions, and explore the book’s deeper themes. The event not only celebrated literacy but also encouraged open discussions about emotions, resilience, and self-expression.
Through events like these, P.S. 59 continues to nurture a strong reading culture while providing students with meaningful experiences that support both academic and emotional growth!
Honoring Dr. King's Legacy: A Day of Unity and Warmth at P.S. 59
Last week, P.S. 59 The Dawn Best School brought the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. to life with a vibrant community celebration. We welcomed families and neighbors to honor Dr. King's legacy through acts of kindness, unity, and creativity!
The celebration embodied the principles of compassion and togetherness. A key highlight was the distribution of duffel bags filled with warm clothing duffel bags, including hats, gloves, and scarves to help those in need during the winter months. Attendees were also treated to a hot meal, fostering a sense of community over delicious food shared in a welcoming environment.
Families participated in engaging activities that showcased the talents and creativity of students and attendees alike. We hosted artwork and writing exhibits on top of encouraging group discussions that cultivated reflection. The cozy atmosphere was further complimented by a hot chocolate station, bringing warmth and comfort to all.
This event was an inspiring reminder that, through shared efforts, we can continue to build a brighter future for all. Thank you to everyone who joined us in making this celebration a success!
Exciting Program Launch at P.S. 057 Crescent!
We are thrilled to announce the successful launch of our new program at P.S. 057 Crescent on Monday, January 13, 2025! This initiative is serving 125 students in grades 1-5, providing a dynamic mix of enrichment and academic offerings designed to inspire and empower young learners.
P.S. 057 Crescent is a public school located in the Crotona neighborhood of the Bronx. The area is predominantly Black and Hispanic, with a significant portion of families facing economic challenges. The median household income falls below the city average, and many families are impacted by a notable poverty rate. Within the school community, 64% of students are Hispanic/Latinx, 29% of students are Black, 2% White, and 1% Asian, and 19% are English Language Learners. Additionally, 94% of students face economic hardship and in 2023, 28% of students performing at a level 3 or 4 in ELA and math in 2023. Despite these challenges, the school community has shown its commitment to growth and education.
In partnership with Omnilearn, a leading Community-Based Organization (CBO) dedicated to transforming classrooms into immersive and stimulating learning environments, students will engage in STEM-specific education designed to spark curiosity and foster innovation. Omnilearn brings science to life through initiatives like in-person labs, professional development workshops for teachers, and a wide range of enrichment programs from robotics to dance. Omnilearn's mission is to bring the magic of science to classrooms across New York, working directly with students and teachers to create a fun and insightful environment.
This marks Arete's fourth school partnership, joining our collaborations with The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, P.S. 59: The Dawn Best School, and the High School for Media and Communications. We are excited to expand our reach and continue our commitment to educational excellence throughout New York City!
F&T Holiday Kickoff Brings Warmth and Cheer to Families!
On Saturday, December 14, our community came together for a heartwarming and festive Holiday Kickoff at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology! With the season of giving in mind, we distributed 250 sets of hats, gloves, and scarves to ensure our families stay warm this winter. Additionally, toys brought joy to the students, and toiletries and cosmetics provided support to our families.
The event featured a delightful buffet-style brunch followed by exciting raffles, with prizes ranging from gift cards to items like speakers, sneakers, and AirPods Max.
Throughout the day, families had the opportunity to connect with one another, capture special moments in family photos, and immerse themselves in creative arts activities. The Band Club also put on an incredible performance, adding a touch of musical magic to the celebration.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event such a success!
P.S. 59 Celebrates the Season with Winter Wonderland Ugly Sweater Party!
On Wednesday, December 18, P.S. 59: The Dawn Best School hosted its annual Winter Wonderland Ugly Sweater Party, a festive and creative celebration that brought students and families together to get into the holiday spirit. With the theme of inclusivity and joy, the event highlighted the many holidays celebrated during this season, including Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa!
Parents were invited to bring plain sweaters to design, using an array of fun and festive materials such as pipe cleaners, garlands, glitter glue, cotton balls, bows, and stars. Together, families turned simple sweaters into vibrant holiday garments. Beyond the crafts, the party was a time for families to bond over food and games. One of the day’s most memorable activities was a lively round of Hungry Hungry Hippo, where parents grabbed their children by the legs while the students used bowls to collect rolling balls. Laughter and cheers filled the room as families competed and cheered each other on!
Adding a touch of magic to the event was a beautiful backdrop where children could write their wishes on stars and place them on display. This thoughtful addition encouraged reflection and hope, reminding everyone of the spirit of the season.
The Winter Wonderland Ugly Sweater Party was a heartwarming celebration of creativity, community, and the diversity of holiday traditions. Families left with cherished memories, festive sweaters, and the shared joy of spending quality time together!
Hot Chocolate Snack Party Brings Holiday Cheer to P.S. 59
On Tuesday, December 17, P.S. 59: The Dawn Best School was transformed into a cozy winter wonderland as students came together for a festive Hot Chocolate Snack Party. The event, which included all students from grades 3 through 5, offered a heartwarming opportunity to celebrate the holiday season as a school community!
Parents were invited to contribute to the festivities by bringing bakery items like cookies, cakes, and pastries - treats that paired perfectly with the star of the event: the hot chocolate station. Adorned with an array of toppings, the station featured whipped cream, sprinkles, and other festive additions, ensuring each student could craft their perfect cup of hot chocolate.
Throughout the afternoon, the room was filled with laughter as students enjoyed their holiday snacks. The atmosphere was further brightened by the sounds of holiday music, creating a joyful celebration. The Hot Chocolate Snack Party was a moment for the P.S. 59 students to come together, fostering connections and spreading holiday cheer!
F&T Students Explore JLABS: A Day of Science, Teamwork, and Celebration
On December 10th, 32 students from The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology participated in an engaging and hands-on BioQuest trip to Johnson & Johnson JLABS and the New York Genome Center in Manhattan. The event provided students with an exciting opportunity to explore the world of science, engage with mentors, and celebrate their achievements in the BioQuest program.
A Day of Discovery and Hands-On Learning
Throughout the day, students participated in interactive lab-based activities, explored scientific concepts, and experienced the real-world environment of a professional lab. The trip began with a Team Pipetting Challenge at JLABS, where students learned how to use high-quality pipettes, timed one another to complete tasks, and got a glimpse of an active lab environment. Students also had the opportunity to speak with scientists, put on lab coats, and pose for fun lab-themed photos. At the Genome Center Cafe, the focus shifted to immersive experiments and teamwork. Students extracted DNA from strawberries during the Strawberry DNA Extraction activity. This experiment not only taught scientific concepts but also encouraged peer mentorship as returning students helped guide new participants.
Other exciting activities included Snow Making, where students explored the chemical reaction between baking soda and shaving cream to create artificial "snow," and Marshmallow Towers, a building challenge that sparked creativity and friendly competition as teams constructed the tallest structures using marshmallows and toothpicks. The day also featured a BioQuest Focus Group, where students reflected on their experiences in the program and shared ideas for future opportunities, such as internships and ambassador roles. The final activity, the Gingerbread Engineering Challenge, allowed students to showcase their design and teamwork skills by constructing gingerbread houses with an array of materials provided.
Building Connections and Celebrating Achievements
More than just a scientific field trip, the BioQuest JLABS & Winter Celebration provided students with an opportunity to strengthen relationships with mentors and peers. Through team-based activities, students collaborated, shared ideas, and celebrated their participation in the program. Each student received a BioQuest sweatshirt, personalized cards from their mentors, and winter-themed gifts. This incredible trip was made possible through our partnership with RTW, whose continued support helps provide these enriching experiences for our students. BioQuest continues to empower students at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology by providing trips that ignite curiosity, build confidence, and open doors to future opportunities!
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