District Kicks Off Program Rooted in Empowerment, Leadership and Sisterhood
ROOSEVELT, NEW YORK (JANUARY 2026)—The Roosevelt School District is proud to announce the launch of its involvement in the New York State My Sister’s Keeper (MSK) initiative, a groundbreaking program rooted in empowerment, leadership, and sisterhood for students. The District recently marked this milestone with a formal ceremony welcoming the community to the initiative and highlighting its commitment to equity and opportunity for girls and young women of color.
My Sister’s Keeper builds upon the mission of the nationally recognized My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) program by addressing the unique challenges faced by girls and young women of color, particularly in STEM education. The initiative is designed to eliminate gender disparities in STEM fields while fostering leadership skills and supporting diversity among future female leaders. The New York State Department of Education launched the My Sister’s Keeper initiative this past spring and Roosevelt is among the first Long Island school districts to join the program.
“The launch of My Sister’s Keeper builds on our continuous work to ensure that every student has access to opportunity, support and meaningful pathways to success,” said Roosevelt School District Superintendent of Schools Dr. Shawn Wightman. “On hearing about the state’s launch of My Sister’s Keeper, we were very excited to join the program in its inaugural year. By investing in our girls and young women, particularly in STEM, we are empowering them to see themselves as leaders, innovators, and change-makers in their communities and beyond.”
The launch ceremony brought together local and state elected officials, district leaders, students and community members, all of whom spoke about the importance of the program and its anticipated impact on the Roosevelt community.
Students selected as fellows in the My Sister’s Keeper program will engage in meaningful community service projects, participate in hands-on STEM learning experiences and connect with professional women working in STEM fields. Through mentorship and real-world exposure, students will gain valuable insight into STEM careers and pathways. The program will also partner with local businesses, educational organizations and colleges to offer immersive experiences, STEM workshops, resume-building support and career guidance.
The District has been a proud participating school in the My Brother’s Keeper program since 2021 and often hosts students from other Long Island MBK districts for community-building, networking and advocacy events.
Through its participation in My Sister’s Keeper, the Roosevelt School District reaffirms its commitment to equity, opportunity, and the empowerment of all students, ensuring that girls and young women are supported, inspired, and prepared to lead in tomorrow’s workforce.
