Nurturing Dance and Music in Education: Highlighting Dance Clubs at Partner Sites
Programming at Arete Education’s 3 partner school sites redefines the learning landscape by integrating dance clubs into the afterschool curriculum. These clubs offer students a unique opportunity to receive dance training within the school environment. By fostering creativity, confidence, and community, Arete Education’s dance programming ignites a passion for the arts and enriches students' educational experiences!
At PS 59: The Dawn Best School and The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, SNS Artistry emphasizes the importance of dance and music in education. Their mission is clear and compelling: to provide students with the opportunity to receive quality training in dance and music within the school system. By doing so, they aim to ignite a lifelong passion for dance and music in young minds.
SNS Artistry's approach to teaching is as diverse as their student body. Catering to all grades and groups, they understand that each student is unique. The structure of their programs depends on the attention level, ambition, and enthusiasm of each group. Whether it's hip-hop, salsa, or bachata, the dance styles taught are chosen based on the students' ability to comprehend and understand timing, rhythm, and retention.
One of the significant incentives for students is the love for dance and music that SNS Artistry fosters through their sessions. This passion is showcased through end-of-season performances. These performances are a way for students to exhibit the skills they have learned in front of an audience, boosting their confidence and sense of achievement. Additionally, these performances are more than just a showcase of talent; they are a celebration of hard work, dedication, and community.
The success stories emerging from SNS Artistry's programs are numerous. Many students remain in the program throughout their school years, eventually joining dance companies outside the classroom. The program's impact goes beyond teaching dance moves; it builds confidence, emotional intelligence, and perseverance. Students learn to push through challenges, influencing a growth mindset that serves them well, not just in dance but with academic and social development.
Moreover, the program promotes the development of lifelong friendships. Students from different age ranges and with varied interests come together through dance. This community helps them develop essential interpersonal skills.
For the instructors, Steven and Steffani, the most rewarding part of their work is watching the students grow. There is immense joy in seeing young, bright minds evolve into confident individuals. The journey doesn't end when students leave the school; many keep in touch, and teachers witness their progress as they grow older.
“It's a blessing to see these young individuals become who they were meant to be!” - Steffani
Through these programs dedicated to dance, students gain more than just artistic skills. They learn about determination, build friendships, and develop a love for the arts that lasts a lifetime!
A Colorful June Celebration at P.S. 59: Welcoming Summer and Honoring Hard Work
In June, Arete proudly celebrated the students of P.S. 59 with two joyous events: the Celebration of Colors and a vibrant carnival. These events were not just a way to honor the students' dedication and perseverance throughout the academic year but also to mark the beginning of summer!
Celebration of Colors
On June 20th, the Celebration of Colors was a lively and heartwarming event designed to acknowledge the students' hard work in preparing for and completing major assessments and exams, celebrate the accomplishments of graduating students, and welcome the summer season. The event was filled with vibrant colors, symbolizing the diverse and dynamic community of P.S. 59. It was a time for students to unwind and enjoy the festive atmosphere after the rigors of their academic endeavors!
Carnival Fun
On June 10th, the carnival brought a wave of excitement and joy to P.S. 59. Students had a blast jumping inside the bouncy house, getting their faces painted with colorful designs, roller skating, and engaging in fun carnival games!The carnival also featured a variety of differently-shaped balloons, adding to the fun and playful environment. The school grounds echoed with laughter and cheer as students enjoyed the numerous activities and celebrated the end of a challenging yet rewarding academic year!
As the academic school year came to an end, P.S. 59 was transformed into a haven of joy and companionship, filled with smiles and laughter, as the school community came together to celebrate the end of the school year and the beginning of summer. These events highlighted the importance of taking time to appreciate and celebrate achievements, fostering a sense of unity and pride within the school!
Celebrating Student Success: Films by Sebanyah Buckmire and Audrey Taveras Shine at NYC Public School Film Festival
We are thrilled to announce the remarkable achievements of two of our talented students, Sebanyah Buckmire and Audrey Taveras, whose films were selected for the prestigious NYC Public School Film Festival! Sebanyah's "In My Head" and Audrey's "It Girl" received unanimous acclaim from the festival judges and have been awarded the highest honors. These outstanding films were showcased at the NYC Public School Film Festival, an event that honors diverse student voices, hosted by The Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment.
About the Films
"In My Head" by Sebanyah Buckmire
Sebanyah Buckmire's film delves into the complexities of mental health, exploring the anxieties and depression of youth. The film's poignant narrative and evocative visuals demonstrate how mental illnesses can be overlooked by anyone.
"It Girl" by Audrey Taveras
Audrey Taveras' "It Girl" presents a sharp and insightful commentary on how oftentimes people tend to conceal their internal struggles based on social pressures, leading one to spiral into depression and loneliness.
In addition to their films being recognized at the festival, Sebanyah Buckmire and Audrey Taveras were featured in an interview on CBS Mornings on May 13th. They joined Patricia Kaufman, the Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office for Media and Entertainment, to discuss their films and the impact of this achievement!
The selection of these films for the NYC Public School Film Festival and being featured on CBS is a testament to the hard work, talent, and vision of Sebanyah and Audrey. It also highlights the supportive and nurturing environment at The High School for Media and Communications, where students are encouraged to pursue their artistic passions and develop their storytelling abilities! We also appreciate the invaluable support and contributions of La Sala Talks to the success of these students.
Arete Student Interns and Employees Learn Real World Skills
This year students across Arete's two high school campuses are engaging in real world skills through their internships with Arete.
Student employees at Media High School are engaged in a professionalism seminar where they practice and grow their emotional intelligence, expand their lesson planning skills, and reflect on their own professional strengths, goals, and growth areas. Our self-care club for students at Media High School is growing a culture of wellness among future professionals.
At The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, high school interns are working with Citizens Bank branch managers to open bank accounts and deepen their personal financial literacy skills. In our pilot ISP Internship, our Communications Interns are mentoring 8th graders to build social media campaigns to raise awareness about common diseases that disproportionally impact patients in the Bronx, conducting interviews with BioQuest STEM mentors, and publishing to Arete's social media channels.
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- Emily and Alex interviewing BioBus rep about the BioQuest program.
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- ISP Communications Interns mentored 8th graders as they completed their social media campaigns.
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- ISP Communications Interns mentored 8th graders as they completed their social media campaigns.
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- ISP Communications Team interns simulated "shark tank" for D7 WISE 8th grade interns.
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- ISP Interns working alongside 8th grade D7 WISE interns.
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- ISP Interns setting up the classroom for 8th grade D7 WISE interns.
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- Media High School Professionalism session exploring goals and strengths.
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- Media High School Professionalism session exploring goals and strengths.
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- Media High School Professionalism session exploring mindfulness practices for professional settings.
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- Citizens Bank event for Arete interns to open student bank accounts.
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- Citizens Bank event for Arete interns to open student bank accounts.
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- Citizens Bank event for Arete interns to open student bank accounts.
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- HS 223 Opportunities Fair staffed by Arete alum.
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- Citizens Bank visit to HS 223 for internship financial literacy workshop.
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- Media High School professionalism workshop on emotional intelligence strengths.
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- Media High School professionalism workshop on emotional intelligence strengths.
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- Media High School self-care sessions.
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- Media High School self-care sessions.
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- Media High School self-care sessions.
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- Media High School self-care sessions.
Partner Feature: RTW Charitable Foundation
During the height of the pandemic, RTW Charitable Foundation reached out to Arete Education through President of Community Engagement Marti Speranza Wong. It was a call out of the blue offering help to students and families in the South Bronx. “What do you really need?” Marti asked. “We want to get money to grassroots organizations immediately to help families who are suffering.” After that initial call with RTW, the funding came weeks later to launch the Arete Hope Network. The program provided wraparound support for 30 families living in temporary housing during the pandemic who were facing significant barriers to accessing school. As a result all students participating in the program passed all their core classes and successfully completed the school year in good standing.
Fast forward three and a half years, and RTW Charitable Foundation is still investing in grassroots education organizations in the South Bronx through an innovative RTW BioQuest program and other innovative programs to put teens into project-based learning contexts that inspire their work as future scientists, investors, and entrepreneurs. Our students in grades 7-10 have been working alongside mentors at RTW as part of the BioQuest and Week Without Walls Programs facilitated through Arete.
RTW’s BioQuest STEM mentoring program is in its first year. Through the pilot over 50 students across Arete the Hunts Point Alliance for Children have engaged with 20 RTW mentors to learn about diverse careers in biotech. They engage in team challenges, explore career pathways into science, and visit professional settings across the city. Students have toured RTW Investments, learning how a company sets out to invest in biomedical breakthrough technologies, as well as JLABS and Weill Cornell BioVenture eLabs learning about applied careers in STEM. Through RTW’s BioQuest, students have also done scientific investigations on the BioBus and spent the day in New Jersey at the Liberty Science Center. BioQuest mentors led hands-on lab activities including extracting DNA from strawberries, team pipette racing, and a video demonstration of robotics technology used in the lab. Students got to explore the space, engage with their mentors, and meet the Head of JLABS US Northeast. This markable group of professionals across the city has invested so much in our students this year. We are so appreciative to be able to facilitate this amazing partnership into a second school year.
Empowering Youth through the Voices Unfiltered Podcast Network
The Media Performing Arts Division at The High School for Media and Communication (HSMC), alongside Spanglish Voces, is proud to inaugurate their latest project - the Voices Unfiltered Podcast Network! This innovative platform aims to empower youth by providing them with an outlet to express themselves freely while honing their critical thinking, writing, and research skills.
The mission of the Voices Unfiltered Podcast Network is to give power to youth voices by fostering confidence and providing opportunities for self-expression. Supported by Artistic Director and Teaching Artist Zulaika Valezquez, students will share their diverse and personal stories, ideas, and perspectives. By encouraging them to pursue their passions and create high-quality content, the initiative aims to instill a sense of agency and advocacy in these young adults.
One of the primary goals of the Voices Unfiltered Podcast Network is to amplify marginalized voices and narratives. In collaboration with HSMC students, the new podcast, “Black Voices Unfiltered," seeks to shine a light on the experiences Black youth. This initiative aims to provide a space for understanding, empathy, and solidarity within the broader community.
Through the creation of their own podcasts, students involved in this project will gain valuable hands-on experience and improve their abilities in media and communications. Furthermore, the Voices Unfiltered Podcast Network serves as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and community engagement, ultimately, being a powerful platform for youth empowerment and social change!
Check out the podcast here: Black Voices Unfiltered Podcast
Celebrating Black History Month at PS 59: Honoring Inventors, Icons, and Activists
At PS 59, thanks to Alejandra Figueroa’s design and planning of these experiences, teachers engaged students in a diverse array of programming aimed at educating, inspiring, and celebrating Black identity and history!
The Phoenix Explorers students are delving into the realm of STEM through the lens of African American inventors. From groundbreaking discoveries to revolutionary inventions, students are learning about the various contributions made by African Americans.
Each grade level at PS 59 has been assigned a specific theme, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of black excellence across various domains.
In the 3K and PreK classes, young learners are immersing themselves in the world of politics as they study prominent Black politicians. Through this, students gained insight into the power of advocacy and leadership!
For 3rd graders, the focus shifts to the realm of dance, with students exploring the lives and legacies of iconic Black dancers. Students celebrated the artistry and cultural significance of dance as a form of expression and resistance!
4th graders focused on the world of athletics, exploring the achievements of African American sports figures who have shattered barriers and redefined the meaning of excellence on the field, court, and track!
In the 5th grade classrooms, students learned about civil rights pioneers and contemporary advocates. They were inspired from activists who have dedicated their lives to fighting for justice, equality, and human rights. These young students are learning valuable lessons about the power of activism and the importance of speaking out against injustice!
One of the highlights of the programming for Black History Month is the Wax Museum, an interactive and educational experience where students bring historical figures to life.
The Black History Month programming at P.S. 59 is committed to fostering an inclusive and empowering learning environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. By highlighting the achievements and contributions of African Americans, the school is not only honoring the past but also motivating the future generations to fight for a better and more equitable future!
Empowering Students: F&T 10th Graders Tackle Rare Diseases in Workplace Challenge with RTW Charitable Foundation
With curiosity and dedication, a group of high school students from The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology participated in an innovative initiative aimed at raising awareness about rare diseases. In collaboration with RTW Charitable Foundation and Arete Education, 10th grade students were provided with the opportunity to delve into the complexities of rare diseases and explore their creativity with science communication! Co-lead by Sarah Benis Scheier-Dolberg from Arete, Sean Robinson from The Lab School, and Sarah Garwood and Joe Katakowski from RTW Charitable Foundation, this unique collaboration was supported by The Lab School’s recent Magnet Award for Career Connected Learning.
The first workplace challenge was intended to immerse students in a thought-provoking environment where they would be able to learn about different diseases that are often overlooked. The research they conducted involved learning about signs, symptoms, and struggles that people face when diagnosed with these rare diseases. Using the knowledge they gained through the investigation process, students were tasked with creating communication materials to disseminate their findings within their community and beyond!
As part of Rare Disease Month, RTW has featured spotlight posts on different rare diseases on Instagram. The rare diseases highlighted were Sickle Cell Disease, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Angelman Syndrome, and Marfan Syndrome. The posts uploaded were curated by the students, showcasing the information they learned through the workplace challenge. Each post displays the students' attentiveness to learning about diseases that affect society and commitment to health advocacy.
In essence, this workplace challenge is indicative of the meaningful knowledge students can acquire and spread. This serves as a powerful reminder that young people can have an amazing impact when it comes to various social issues when given the opportunity to engage with new topics in creative and intriguing ways. Furthermore, the graphics from the workplace challenge are also a form of motivation to inspire the general public in joining the cause of advocating for a more healthy, equitable, and inclusive world. The work that RTW does within the sciences are opportunities that allow us to continue supporting and empowering our students. With the help of RTW, we can establish new career paths, invest in science education for our students, and drive future generations of changemakers!
Igniting Futures: A Successful Career Day @ The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology!
On Friday, February 2, The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology hosted 68 dedicated professionals who offered a diverse array of career paths and life stories. This Career Day event proved to be a catalyst for personal reflection, igniting a sense of curiosity and ambition among the students that we believe will profoundly shape their futures.
Professionals from various industries volunteered their time to share insights and make invaluable contributions. Each presenter brought a unique perspective to the table, enriching the students' understanding of the professional landscape. Whether discussing the intricacies of software development or the nuances of environmental conservation, every interaction served as a stepping stone towards greater knowledge of potential career paths and aspirations.
Beyond simply delivering presentations, our guest speakers actively engaged with students, facilitating meaningful dialogue and forging genuine connections. This interactive approach not only enhanced the learning experience but also promoted the values of Career Connected Learning. Through these partnerships, we hope to continue collaborating, and creating internships and mentorship opportunities that will further enrich our students' educational journey. This network will serve as a valuable resource for students as they navigate the complexities of the workplace, providing them with the support and guidance needed to realize their goals.
We also want to thank our volunteer speakers for lending their time and expertise to inspire and educate middle and high school students. Upon reflection of the successful career day, two such volunteers, Jack Darcey and Regina Alston, shared insights into their respective careers and their experiences at the event.
Jack Darcey, a Transportation Planner with the NYC Department of City Planning, provided a glimpse into his dynamic role, which involves a blend of transportation policy development, analytics, and neighborhood analysis. His day-to-day responsibilities range from conducting research and spatial analyses to observing infrastructure firsthand, all with the goal of supporting policy proposals and addressing pressing transportation issues.
One highlight of the event for Jack was the opportunity to engage with students and witness their genuine curiosity and insights. He found it particularly rewarding to hear students' questions and comments, especially when they related to pressing issues like affordable housing and transportation infrastructure. Jack emphasized the importance of exposing youth to topics like urban planning, which may not be commonly discussed in academic settings but are crucial for understanding our built environment.
Jack's decision to volunteer stemmed from his passion for youth engagement and his desire to expose students to the field of planning, which he finds fascinating yet often overlooked. Through partnerships with organizations like ours, Jack aims to broaden students' horizons and inspire them to consider career paths in the built environment.
Regina Alston, a Mental Health Clinician with Samaritan Daytop Village, shared her experiences as a case manager working with patients transitioning out of mental health facilities. Her day-to-day responsibilities involve providing support, making home visits, and ensuring a seamless transition for her clients.
For Regina, the highlight of Career Day was the inquisitiveness and openness displayed by the students. She was impressed by their eagerness to learn and connect, particularly when discussing topics like mental health and the environment of the South Bronx. Regina volunteered for the event out of a sense of duty to her community and a desire to empower the next generation. She believes that investing in youth is essential for creating positive change and shaping future leaders.
The insights shared by Jack Darcey and Regina Alston offer a glimpse into the transformative impact of Career Day on both volunteers and students alike. Through their dedication and passion, they exemplify the spirit of community engagement and mentorship that lies at the heart of events like these!
First Job Fair @ P.S. 59 The Dawn Best School: A Success!
Last week, P.S. 59 The Dawn Best School hosted a Job Fair, marking a significant moment in their commitment of empowering the Bed-Stuy community. In efforts of fostering career opportunities for Brooklyn families, P.S. 59 opened their doors to a variety of Career Vendors, offering on-the-spot interviews and potential employment prospects.
P.S. 59 welcomed excited families with the anticipation of meeting with representatives of different sectors and career backgrounds. Attendees of this job fair were eager to explore new job possibilities and learn about diverse professional aspirations. Among the highlights of the event were the success stories of two parents of Areté students who secured employment with State Security during the Job Fair!
This first job fair was an amazing opportunity to bring the community together and foster an environment for networking. This event was the first of the series of monthly Job Fairs, each offering fresh opportunities for Brooklyn families to engage with potential employers. P.S. 59 plans on continuing their dedication to creating meaningful connections between families and employers in order to promote economic stability and social mobility.
Thank you to all who attended and contributed to the success of the first Job Fair!
Join us for the Citizens Bank Financial Literacy Session!
Event Date: Saturday, February 10, 2024
Time: 12:00 - 3:00 pm
Location: Citizens, 186 E 86th St., New York, NY, 10028
Arete Education is partnering with Citizens Bank to provide students with financial literacy and real world experience through opening up and managing checking and investment accounts!
Arete has previously held a session with interns at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, and it was a success! This follow up event will be held on the Upper East Side (4/5/6 86th Stop) this Saturday exclusively for F&T families and staff who would like to learn more about how to open bank accounts.
Please consider joining us and learning more about finances! RSVP here.
Branch Event 2_10 Invite V4
“Feed Our Needs”: The Inspiring Journey of Philanthropy with Areté Education
"Feed Our Needs" is an impactful initiative hosted by Areté Education that is dedicated to addressing the fundamental needs of individuals across underserved and vulnerable communities. With a passionate commitment to fostering positive change, Areté Education brings together a diverse range of programs under the "Feed Our Needs" campaign aimed at empowering low-income and predominantly Black and Brown populations. From food drives and etiquette luncheons to the provision of winter clothes and financial resources, "Feed Our Needs" strives to create a holistic approach to community well-being. Areté Education's innovative and inclusive programs empower Black- and Brown-owned businesses and provide essential resources to those in need.
The journey of Feed our Needs began in 2020, initially rooted in the collaboration with IHS Markit, Barclays, and The Collective (consortium of Wall Street based Black Employee Resource Groups across the financial sector). When the annual gala, traditionally hosted by The Collective, was put on hold, they decided to channel their efforts into a meaningful cause. Areté Board President, McEvans Francois, and his peers were inspired by a CNN article that shed light on the struggles faced by Harlem restaurants, particularly those owned by people of color. That inspiration sparked conversations on pathways to support Black-owned businesses. Thanks to the vision of Areté Board members, Kholofelo Mothibi and Erica Sealey, the initiative evolved to focus on supporting both Black-and Latinx-owned establishments, as each population resides in the communities Areté serves.
Barclays and IHS Markit saw the need and generously supported the Feed Our Needs mission. Areté created a website in order to raise awareness and broaden the fundraising efforts. The firms were able to raise $15k to support the Feed Our Needs programs in the first year. These funds were used for large food orders at Black- and Latinx-owned restaurants, and the purchased food was given to Areté families at community events serving those in need and most impacted by the pandemic. A notable contribution of $5,000 was directed towards La Morada, a Mexican restaurant located in the South Bronx well-known for supporting migrants in our communities. Families in the area reaped the benefits, marking the beginning of a broader mission.
Furthering Areté Education’s mission and vision, the Feed Our Needs Campaign began to scout out restaurants in underserved communities of South Bronx, Harlem, and Brooklyn. In 2021, for Juneteenth, Feed Our Needs sponsored food truck meals, increasing access to food directly to the communities in need. Then, in 2021, Areté incorporated financial literacy efforts in collaboration with Carver Bank, providing pamphlets and valuable resources to the community. Further expanding the mission, in January 2023, an event in Brooklyn served as an example of the program's adaptability. Recognizing the changing demographics due to an increased volume of migrants from South America and the Caribbean, Areté Education tailored the efforts of Feed Our Needs to meet the specific needs of these communities. Warm meals, sourced from local Black- and Brown- owned businesses, and duffel bags containing winter accessories, like mittens, were distributed to families.
Over the past year, Areté has hosted various events assisting families across Bed-Stuy, Mott Haven, and Washington Heights as part of the Feed Our Needs Initiative.
- Running from January to June, students from P.S. 59 are invited to go out to eat at a local restaurant and participate in an etiquette class. These etiquette luncheons help foster an environment where students are stimulated by the process of learning new skills while also getting the chance to explore a new restaurant, owned by Black or Latinx individuals in the local community.
- On June 17, Areté Education and The Collective (CF BERG) joined in Harlem to celebrate Juneteenth at the Juneteenth Freedom Fest NYC. 50 families across Areté’s 3 campuses participated, coming together with other community members, local groceries, and other non-profit organizations.
- On November 18, a Thanksgiving Feed our Needs event was hosted at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology from 10-12 pm where 90 families received hot meals and one bag full of quintessential ingredients and groceries to prepare a homemadeThanksgiving dinner.
- On November 21, a Family Thanksgiving Dinner was hosted at P.S. 59 The Dawn Best School. The event ran from 4-5:30 pm and more than 60 people attended. Students and families gathered together to enjoy food and music and spend quality time with each other. Five $50 Food Bazaar gift cards were raffled at this event.
- On December 16, a Family Resource Fair was hosted at the High School for Media and Communications where approximately $1400 was spent to support 90 families in Washington Heights.
Now more than ever, the Feed Our Needs program is needed to address the ongoing migrant crisis, food insecurity, and poverty rates in our communities. As we head into 2024, the focus of Feed Our Needs remains dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of Areté’s underserved communities. This January, there is an upcoming MLK Day event to be hosted in Brooklyn the week of January 15th. Join the movement and be part of this transformative journey where we’ll support our families in the Bed-Stuy neighborhood! Contact Sam Alexander (sam@areteeducation.org) to sign up as a volunteer.
Through strategic partnerships, outreach, and community engagement, Areté Education is actively working towards building a stronger, more resilient community through the Feed Our Needs initiative!
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