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MVHS students learn about NY HELPS Program for civil service

Students working on the computer.
MVHS students learn about NY HELPS Program for civil service

Jason Tomlinson from the New York State Department of Civil Service visited Mount Vernon High School on Thursday, November 14, 2024, for an informative session about job opportunities throughout the state and application support. 

The session started off with students going around the room to introduce themselves and what their plans are for post-secondary education before Mr. Tomlinson started his presentation. He told students about his business endeavors and how his time working for the State of New York will help him secure benefits to pursue his passion.

“Honestly, my reasoning to come here was because I wanted to expand my opportunities,” said Curtis Jackson, a senior at MVHS. “I already have a lot of opportunities from what the school gave to me. I’m using this (the resources) after I graduate.” 

Mr. Tomlinson then went on to discuss opportunities and jobs across the state, the application process, the civil service merit system and the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide (NY HELPS) Program. 

“The Department of Civil Service has changed since 1883," said Mr. Tomlinson. “And one of the biggest things is NY HELPS. It’s a program that the state has started to help get people into jobs faster. These jobs eliminate the need for people to have to take an exam that they would traditionally have to take for state jobs. All a job seeker has to do is meet the minimum qualifications for that role, and they can move into the world of work.”

After his presentation, students went online and started job searching and exploring opportunities that they may be interested in. New York State provides paid training and growth opportunities in positions such as accounting, education and public safety.

Teacher helping students.
Teacher speaking to students.
Students looking at paperwork.
Teacher holding up flyer,
Students raising their hands.


 

Dr.DemarioStricklandSuperintendent
Community Message: Welcome Address from Dr. Demario A. Strickland, Superintendent of Schools

Greetings Mount Vernon, 

Thank you for entrusting your children’s education to me as Superintendent of Schools for the Mount Vernon City School District. Over the past few weeks, I have spent time getting to know the community of Mount Vernon, and I am impressed with the pride that fills the city. I am looking forward to making sure that residents are filled with that same pride for the schools that their children attend. I am excited to step in and get right to the important work of improving our District and achieving our shared vision of success. 

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Photo left to right: Dr. Smith, Trustee Lorna Kirwan, Trustee Adriane Saunders, In-House Counsel Royce Russell, Trustee Helene Thompson Njenga
Community Message: Thank you message from Acting Superintendent to outgoing trustees

Dr. K. Veronica Smith, Acting Superintendent:

As their terms as trustees of the Mount Vernon City School District come to an end, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Trustee Adriane Saunders, Trustee Lorna Kirwan, and Trustee Helene Thompson-Njenga for all they have done for our District during their time in office. They served as champions for education, always making decisions to better serve the children of Mount Vernon. Our District will wear the mark of the work they have done for years to come, and I am so appreciative of everything we were able to accomplish together for our scholars.

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Graduates from Mount Vernon High School and Rebecca Turner Academy walked the stage at Memorial Field on Wednesday evening, as 274 from the Class of 2025 received their diplomas. Students waved and smiled to their families and friends in the packed stadium as they took their places at the front of the ceremony, accompanied by percussion from the Ice Cold Performing Arts, a group made up of Mount Vernon students.

Click here to view the full photo gallery!