On Friday, March 21st, the New York State Education Department launched the New York State My Sister's Keeper (MSK) initiative with a kick-off event at Bronx Community College - and Woodlands Middle High School was there in full force! MSK builds on the mission of My Brother's Keeper (MBK), which is to change the narrative for boys and young men of color by focusing on the specific challenges girls and young women of color experience in STEM education. The initiative will work to eliminate gender disparities in STEM fields while supporting diversity and building leadership skills in future female leaders.
The Greenburgh CSD has been actively engaged in MBK for several years following its 2016 launch in NY State. Woodlands MBK Director Anthony Gaines was thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce the District’s young women to MSK and took 15 girls in grades 9 - 12 to participate in this historic event. “These young women will serve as catalysts to bring forth a diverse MSK program for the District, “ said Mr. Gaines.
Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr., who spoke at the event, said, “The success of NYS My Brother’s Keeper demonstrates the transformational power of targeted support for boys and young men of color. However, the inequities we aim to dismantle extend beyond gender. Today’s launch of New York State My Sister’s Keeper is a significant step toward leveling the playing field for girls and young women of color to pursue careers in STEM fields. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and their legislative partners for championing this visionary movement to reshape futures, break barriers and change the narrative for students across the state."