Skip To Main Content

Mount Vernon Youth Court students visit White Plains Federal Court

Students standing with law professional.
Mount Vernon Youth Court students visit White Plains Federal Court

Students in the Mount Vernon Youth Court (MVYC) program spent the day in White Plains Federal Court on Thursday, January 23, 2025, through the Justice for All: Courts and the Community Initiative. They got to experience “A Day in Federal Court” and hear from law professionals throughout the entire day.  

Mount Vernon Youth Court is a peer diversion program curated by Deputy Commissioner Jennifer Lackard and Assistant County Attorney Nick DeCicco from the Westchester County Attorney’s Office. MVYC teens hear cases of youths caught committing crimes and decide on sanctions for a restorative action plan, which can include treatment, counseling, mentoring, academic reporting, apology letters and community service.

Through Youth Court, students have a number of opportunities to get up-close to the legal profession and learn about the intricacies of the law. Students participate in a five-week training program with Assistant Country Attorney Nick DeCicco and the Mount Vernon Police Department. Kenyetta Hopkins, Pennington Assistant Principal and Youth Court coordinator, organizes the field trips and oversees the restorative action plans.

Youth Court students went on this field trip to get firsthand experience in a courtroom and learn about legal practices. They heard from a number of legal experts including judges, attorneys, a U.S. marshal, and an FBI agent. Students will take what they have learned and apply it as they continue to hear their own cases.

Students standing in front of courthouse.
Students viewing plaque in courthouse.
Students sitting in courtroom.
Agenda for Day in Federal Court.


 

Superintendent of MVCSD shares community feedback on budget priorities
Superintendent of MVCSD shares community feedback on budget priorities

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Demario Strickland presented community feedback on budget priorities for the 2026 - 2027 school year to the Board of Education Tuesday evening. The District conducted a survey in December to hear from community members and stakeholders about what they think is essential for the 2026 -27 budget.

Amirah Arroya and Taj Lovell qualify for Nike Nationals
Amirah Arroya and Taj Lovell qualify for Nike Nationals

Congratulations to our Girls' Track and Field for an outstanding performance this past weekend! Taj Lovell ran her best time of the season in the 55 hurdles, qualifying for Nike Nationals and breaking into the top 50 hurdlers in New York! Amirah Arroya won the shot put and weight throw, qualifying for the Nike Nationals in both events. She threw a personal best in the weight throw along with her teammates Jasmine McKenzie and Daniella Thorpe, who placed 4th in the weight throw.

Mount Vernon's Jewel Box - Preparing for State Testing
Mount Vernon's Jewel Box - Preparing for State Testing

With state testing around the corner, students and staff are gearing up to conquer what’s ahead. Students have been studying hard and diligently to pave the way for their success. Our scholars are preparing to do their best, as they always do. Best of luck to all in the weeks ahead! #MtVernonShines