Students of NYC Celebration 2026

Farrah, a student featured on Students of NYC, performs a dance at the Students of NYC celebration.

Emily James (left), who started the Students of NYC initiative, addresses the students and attendees.

Queens student honorees celebrate their collective successes.

New York City Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels welcomes the students and their supporters.

Yelani, a student featured on Students of NYC, shares her story.

UFT President Michael Mulgrew addresses the audience.

Central Park East HS teachers Jolene Sysak (second from left) and Melissa Fleming (right) are presented with awards by their students.

Lydia Santana (right), a teacher at Newtown HS in Queens, and her student, Amelia, show off Amelia’s certificate.