In just a few months, the Bronx STEAM Center will officially open its doors, marking a major milestone for students at BRHS and other partner schools. Set to launch in September, the program will provide opportunities to learners interested in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.
Representatives from the Bronx STEAM Center visited the Lehman campus on March 5 to meet students selected for the two-year program. Only 10 out of 30 interested students from BRHS were chosen to participate in this initiative.
“I am extremely happy that BRHS was chosen to be the a part of the Bronx STEAM Center,” said Principal Gregory Fucheck. He believes this is an excellent opportunity to come out of high school with career credentials that make you highly wanted.
During a meeting with students who have been selected to be a part of the program, Maha Hasen, principal of the STEAM program, highlighted the program’s three career pathways: Cybersecurity, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), and Medical Assistant.
“The goal here is that they build those foundational skills that will set them up for a well-paying job once they graduate high school,” she said during a get-to-know-you session in the library. The program aims to prepare students for immediate workforce entry while also supporting those who wish to continue their education.
Jana Kantor, the Director of Career Pathways at Montefiore, emphasized the importance of healthcare careers and the skills they need. “Healthcare work is full of heart, she said. “There’s something really powerful about leaving work knowing that you helped someone,” she said.
Ms. Kantor encouraged students to embrace learning, overcome mistakes and build strong connections. “You are more capable than you believe, just keep trying. And remember, relationships are everything.”
Upcoming juniors will attend school from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. before heading to the Bronx STEAM Center from noon to 2:50 p.m. As seniors, their schedules will reverse.
Sumaiya Jahan, a sophomore and part of the Bronx STEAM program, looks forward to joining the program in the fall. “It felt like a door of many opportunities just opened up,”’ she said. “This will give me real-life experience that will help me with job opportunities.” She chose Cybersecurity because it is in high demand in the IT sector and aligns with her interest in managing information intelligence.
Sadia Ahammad, a sophomore and part of the Bronx STEAM program, expressed her appreciation for meeting students from different schools and learning new skills. “It felt pleasureful meeting people from different schools and backgrounds,” she said. She chose nursing to prepare for a future career as a doctor and values the chance to earn a CNA certification in high school.
Sophomore counselor Jemny Santana encouraged students to take advantage of the opportunity.
“This is a phenomenal program that is very beneficial for students,” she said. “I would say take every opportunity while you’re in high school because you are saving both money and time. Be committed, have consistency and always remember to finish what you start.”
