This summer, Port Chester students embraced opportunities to grow personally and professionally through three innovative programs: the Summer Technology Internship Program, EmpowerED Futures, and the PC STEAM Music Internship. Each initiative reflects the district’s commitment to preparing students for life beyond the classroom by combining real-world learning, mentorship, and meaningful community impact.

Technology Internship Program

Now in its third successful year, the Summer Technology Internship Program has provided more than 75 students with hands-on experience bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world IT operations. From the very start, students engage in a professional process—submitting applications, interviewing, and earning their spot on the team.

Once selected, interns work directly alongside the district’s technology professionals to prepare schools for the upcoming academic year. Their responsibilities include preparing and imaging hundreds of new Chromebooks, diagnosing and repairing devices, upgrading classroom desktops to Windows 11, troubleshooting hardware and connectivity issues, installing and updating smartboards, and ensuring network printers are fully operational. These tasks are not simulations; they are vital contributions that ensure classrooms are ready for students and staff.

“This program has become an essential part of how we prepare for the school year,” said Michael Ritacco, Director of Technology. “Our interns are doing real work that directly impacts our teachers and students. Their efforts ensure that on day one, classrooms are ready to go.”

EmpowerED Futures

Now in its second year, the EmpowerED Futures program—funded by the New York State Office of Mental Health and led by Director of Guidance Dr. Maeva Rich Kennedy—offered students another path to growth. Mentored by PCMS teachers Allison Fasano and Laurie Halstead, interns explored the social determinants of wellness and mental health while building skills in empathy, leadership, public speaking, healthy food choices, and civic engagement.

Students worked in the community garden, harvested fresh produce, and supported families by managing operations at the middle school food pantry. From ordering supplies to maintaining inventory, their efforts ensured access to healthy food while also fostering a sense of responsibility and teamwork.

The impact was profound: students reported not only gaining practical skills but also developing deeper confidence and stronger bonds with peers and mentors.

In Case You Missed It: Rams Radio Podcast Highlights EmpowerED

In case you missed it, the first episode of the district’s official podcast, Rams Radio, put EmpowerED students at the mic to share how project-based learning, internships, and community engagement have shaped their growth and success.

For easy listening, we’ve divided the episode into short audio clips so you can enjoy at your own pace or share specific highlights with others:

STEAM Music Internship Program

In its second year, the PC STEAM Music Internship Program gave student musicians a unique opportunity to learn, work, and give back. Guided by music educators Jonathan Pereira, Melissa Neyer, and Amanda Porcaro, participants gained specialized skills in instrument care and repair while building pride in their contributions.

As a Title I district, Port Chester provides more than 1,000 free instruments to students annually—making maintenance an essential priority. Building on the model of the Chromebook repair internship, the music program trained students in brass repair, general maintenance, and digital music archiving. For six weeks, interns worked with professional checklists and expert guidance, producing impressive results:

• Nearly 300 instruments restored
  
  
• More than 75 hours of hands-on repair and service completed
  
  
• Over 600 pieces of music digitized with audio links, creating a robust digital library for student and staff use
  
  

The program was further supported by a partnership with the Carver Center, which provided funding through a New York State grant and additional job training opportunities. Most importantly, students walked away with more than technical know-how—they gained confidence, responsibility, and excitement for their futures.

Looking Ahead

Across all three programs, Port Chester students demonstrated resilience, leadership, and skill while making a real difference in their schools and community. Whether repairing technology, supporting wellness initiatives, or preserving the district’s vibrant music program, interns embraced authentic responsibilities that will serve them for years to come.

We are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to expanding these opportunities, ensuring that every student has the chance to discover new passions, build confidence, and prepare for success beyond the classroom.

Click here to view the slideshow.

Date Added: 9/15/2025