YONKERS, N.Y. (PIX11) -- School isn’t only about books and tests. The best lessons come from personal experience and interaction.
Chants of "girl power" offer some inspiration.
Some students and staff in Yonkers at Barack Obama School for Social Justice have a unique way of marking National Girls and Women in Sports Day.
It’s not a lecture, it’s life. The lessons are revealed in conversations about what’s possible.
A Yonkers police detective begins her story on the basketball court.
It impressed Makayla Quintyn, a senior at the school.
"I want to go to college and major in criminal justice like the detective," Quintyn said.
Sports and extracurricular activities help reveal talents. Basketball teaches more than teamwork.
"I’ve been playing since ninth grade. In the beginning, I wasn’t very confident. But now as the years go on I’m more comfortable," said senior Nevaeh Byrd.
The first National Girls and Women in Sports Day was created in 1987 by presidential decree.
Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano created a women's advisory board, which sponsors the event.
Melvina Lathan is the board chairperson.
"We want to get them young and have them see a path and help them choose a path," she said.
Firefighters always make quite the impression.
Fatima Taylor was born and raised in Yonkers. She was the first African American woman to become a Yonkers firefighter four years ago.
She’s always ready to talk and listen.
"I’m getting something out of it too. It's nice to inspire and be inspired by women. We have so much to offer," she said.
Niasia Boyd is a business owner and artist who started her own makeup and style line.
"My message is always be consistent and work hard. Most importantly, believe in yourself fully. Don't listen to naysayers. Go ahead and make your mark," she said.
It’s more than a career day in the classroom. It’s a chance to network, hear some truth, and see how dreams can come true.
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