Six students made presentations about their experience in the New York Power Authority’s first paid cybersecurity fellowship program.
The students — who are pursuing computer science degrees while in high school — built personal computers, installed software, and learned how to troubleshoot various IT and networking issues.
The program also prepared them to earn their CompTIA A+ certification following their exams this summer.
The fellowship program prepares students for careers in cybersecurity by providing hands-on training and real-world experience, supporting the development of a skilled and competent workforce.
The students are part of Port Richmond High School’s Grades 9-14 Pathways to Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program.
Students in the program have the unique opportunity to earn a tuition-free associate’s degree from the College of Staten Island in computer technology or liberal sciences, and get hands-on work experience from participating industry partners, which includes the New York Power Authority.
Sponsored by New York Power Authority’s Environmental Justice Department and facilitated by Follow Us to Success, the program is part of the company’s larger commitment to provide work-based learning opportunities for students.
Three Staten Island parents were honored for making a significant contribution to their community through their time, actions, and talent.
The city Department of Youth & Community Development’s Community Moms and Dads event held in May honored parents across the five boroughs for their contributions, which may be in the form of community involvement, commitment to volunteering their time and skills, leadership, community assistance, personal example, and/or life accomplishments.
The individuals chosen for the award demonstrate compassion, service, strength, innovation, volunteerism, and uplifting New York City, according to the Department of Youth & Community Development.
The three parents honored from Staten Island were Annesa Ali, Marie Perani, and Mathew John.
Ali is the mother of Mia and Mya and the founder of Making a Change with Kindness, a project she began because her daughter was bullied for the color of her skin and her curls at just 3 years old. Ali built Making a Change with Kindness — with programs like Kids Give Back and kindness workshops — to teach compassion to children. Her message to every parent is that kindness isn’t extra credit — it’s the foundation.
“And if we don’t plant it now, we leave our children to inherit a world where empathy is missing, and destruction becomes normal,” added Ali.
Perani has more than 20 years of experience at the Eden II Program - Little Miracles Preschool — dedicating a career to support children with special needs and their families. She began her career as an assistant teacher and now serves as a clinical coordinator. She recently earned a master’s degree in special education.
“I am deeply committed to Eden II’s mission and believe the strong, trusting relationships I have built over the years are essential in fostering growth and empowering families as they navigate their children’s early developmental years,” said Perani.
John is an educator, inclusion coordinator, and psychology instructor for nursing students. He leads the JCC Adolescent Literacy Program and has more than a decade of experience supporting English language learners, students with special needs, and at-risk youth. The recognition recognizes John’s impact and commitment to inclusion, education, and community service.
IN CLASS: This feature is part of an ongoing education column by the Staten Island Advance highlighting the various activities that engage school communities.
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