Administrator Comments
“The program for high school students, the
Youth Empowerment Seminar (YES!) has had
an equally positive impact. Students have shared
with me how much more relaxed they feel, and
how the techniques have helped them do
homework with greater efficiency. Many say it has
helped them with test anxiety, as well as given
them tools to deal with their negative emotions.
They all seemed to enjoy the program and many
continue to use the techniques on their own. I
have seen an increase in confidence as well as
abilities to prioritize as a result of the program.”
Phillip Weinberg, Principal, HSTAT, NYC, NY
Linda Johnson,
Assistant Principal,
P.S. 161, Brooklyn
“My mind began to focus, and I started to focus on what can I do to bring my school together. The more I began to focus on my school, then I began to focus on what can I do to help me come together.”
The Y.E.S. program was extremely beneficial with removing the barriers that prevent our students from speaking freely to one another. During this experience, students were able to share their thoughts and feelings in a safe and nurturing environment. After only a few days of taking part in the program, faculty members could see a measurable growth in class cooperation and confidence. Furthermore, the students also gained insight into numerous techniques designed to improve health and well being. For example, the breathing techniques explored during the course really helped students relax and appreciate the world around them. Because of the program, the students are equipped with skills to reduce anger violence and depression, as well as improve focus, clarity of mind and concentration.
-Dr. Mario Santos, Principal,
East Side H.S. Newark, New Jersey