At PS 46 in Brooklyn, students were entertained by Skitch Henderson, Carnegie Hall Band Leader, who discussed his musical career and led his quartet in some jazz tunes. In response to one PS 67 sixth grader’s letter to New York City Councilwoman Leticia James from Fort Greene, Brooklyn about the student’s unsafe commute to school, Councilwoman James participated in Career Day as a keynote speaker and promised the students that she would continue to work hard to make Fort Greene a safer community.

Other presenters included a salsa dancer, an FBI agent, an opera singer, attorneys and not-for-profit executives. Danielle Greer and dancers from Phoenix Rising Dance Creations performed an Afro-Caribbean dance piece that made students dance in their seats.

Verbelle Williams, a lawyer who spoke at PS 93 said, “I believe I benefited even more than the children. I represented that if I can do it, then with effort their dreams are within reach.” Presenters included Partnership with Children Board of Directors and staff. One staff member discussed her education, which began at PS 140 – the school at which she spoke – and led her to Barnard College.

Site Director Alex LaMond noted that “the diversity in professions allows students to see that there are many employment opportunities available.” Children expressed appreciation in thank you notes. A PS 44 second grader wrote, “You told us that we need to stay in school every day and that it’s important to listen to your teacher for instructions and safety, and help other kids.”

Partnership with Children thanks all of the presenters for sharing their stories and lives. Please continue to inspire our children by participating in future Career Days. If you would like to participate in Career Day 2006, on Monday, April 24th at PS 140 on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, Wednesday May 17th at PS 46 in Fort Greene, Brooklyn or Thursday, May 25th at PS 67 in Fort Greene or PS 93 in Bedford Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, please call 212.689.9500, ext. 307.