Parenting is hard—especially when it comes to picking the right school for your kid. It’s not just about grades or test scores, it’s about making sure they’re in a space where they can grow, feel safe, and be their full, beautiful selves. So, when I had the chance to walk through the Yonkers Public School Expo with my 5th grader, a child who’s currently thriving at School 17, I knew it was time to get real about the next step for her.
If you’re a parent, especially in a community like ours, you know how crucial it is to pick the right environment for your kid—not just the safest, but one where they’re actually seen. One that nurtures their growth, their voice, and their individuality.
Now, let me tell you about the heartwarming gems I came across at this expo. First up, I met Ms. Lewis, the 10th-grade assistant principal from the Barack Obama School. Her passion for her students was so infectious, I couldn’t help but think, “That’s the kind of energy I want my daughter to be around.” Ms. Lewis wasn’t just talking; she was walking it, with a fierce commitment to her students’ success. That’s the kind of leadership that makes a difference, and it made me think, “Maybe this is the space where my daughter can continue to flourish.”
Another standout moment for us was bumping into none other than Principal Mr. John Cartica of School 17. Let me tell you, this man is a gem. He’s been leading School 17 for several years now, and the decision to bring him in as principal was hands-down one of the best decisions the school made. Mr. Cartica isn’t just a leader—he’s a father figure to so many of these kids. His heart is fully invested in the success and well-being of every student who walks through those doors. His love for his kids is evident, and it’s contagious. That energy is why School 17 has flourished and why my daughter has thrived there for all these years.
Mr. Cartica walked us over to meet Mr. Mark Ametrano, principal of Robert Halmi Sr. Academy of Film and Television, and —I’m talking about a whole new world opened up for my daughter. The way Mr. Ametrano spoke about the opportunities at his school, especially for those interested in the arts, sparked a fire in my daughter.
But it doesn’t stop there. I also had the honor of meeting Anibal Soler Jr., the Superintendent of Schools for Yonkers. This man gets it. He talked about how important it is for the school system to support each and every child, no matter their background. And you could see it in his eyes—he wasn’t just about the books and the tests, he was all about the holistic development of our kids. That’s what we need—leaders who understand the complexities of the communities they serve.
I also had the privilege of speaking to two more standout leaders: Nigel Shoulders from Yonkers Middle School and Ryan James, Principal of William Boyce Thompson School. Both of them exuded such a deep understanding of what it takes to guide and nurture our children. Mr. Shoulders was so engaged, talking about how he strives to make his school a space where every student feels like they belong, and Mr. James—let me just say, the vision he has for his students is exactly what we need. He’s invested in their futures in ways that go beyond education; he’s all about building character and giving them the tools they need to succeed in life.
The Yonkers Public School Expo was a revelation. It wasn’t just an event for gathering pamphlets and brochures, it was a chance to connect with people who truly care about our kids and their futures. It’s about finding the right environment—one where our children can be challenged, celebrated, and uplifted. I walked out of that expo feeling more confident than ever that there are incredible educational options out there for my daughter. And it’s not about just picking a school, it’s about finding a place where she’ll be seen, heard, and supported every step of the way.
So, to all the parents out there—if you want your child to be in an environment that pushes them to be the best version of themselves, events like this expo are key. These passionate educators are the backbone of our kids’ futures, and we need to keep supporting them. As we head toward the next chapter for my daughter, I’m feeling empowered and inspired. This journey doesn’t end here, and I’m grateful for the amazing people and organizations making sure our kids have the resources they need to thrive.
Keep fighting for your kids, keep supporting those educators who are doing the real work, and above all—keep trusting your gut. Our children’s future is in our hands.
