Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano joined Superintendent of Schools Aníbal Soler, Jr. to present his School Spotlight Award to the deserving administration, faculty, staff, parents, and students at Gorton High School. Under the leadership of Principal Jamie Morales, Gorton High School has achieved notable progress in two pivotal areas: Innovation & Future Ready Learning and Student Agency, Leadership & Civic Engagement.
“Principal Jamie Morales and his team at Gorton High School continue to show what is possible when a school community is united in purpose and committed to every child’s success,” said Mayor Mike Spano. “With innovative, future‑ready programs and strong student leadership that strengthens civic pride across Yonkers, Gorton is setting a true standard of excellence. Their academic gains and citywide impact reflect the hard work and dedication of the entire school community. I applaud their commitment and proudly recognize the progress they continue to deliver for our Yonkers Public School students.”
Initiatives that have contributed to Gorton High School’s success include:
- Innovation & Future Ready Learning -Through four NYS‑approved Career & Technical Education (CTE) pathways, early college access, and strong partnerships with higher education and industry, Gorton High School ensures that students graduate with credentials, hands‑on experience, and—in many cases—more than a year of earned college credit.
- Students perform clinical procedures such as EKGs and phlebotomy in a fully functioning medical lab, design and pitch entrepreneurial ventures in Shark Tank–style capstones, develop fitness programs for real clients, and engage in advanced biotechnology and AI-focused research through partnerships with community and industry partners.
- Through the Smart Scholars Early College High School grant, students can graduate with up to 64 transferable college credits. The P-TECH program — in partnership with Westchester Community College (WCC) and Empress EMS — allows students to complete EMT ride-alongs and earn EMT-B certification before graduation. Students may also earn an AAS degree in Paramedics at WCC at no cost to families.
- Student Agency, Leadership & Civic Engagement – Gorton High School’s highly active Student Council, award‑winning MBK and MSK chapters, and growing number of students earning the NYS Seals of Biliteracy and Civic Readiness reflect a strong culture of leadership. Their impact extends beyond the building through partnerships with city agencies, community service initiatives, and signature events that strengthen civic pride and community connection.
- The Gorton Student Council exemplifies authentic student agency, advocating at district and community forums, collaborating with the Yonkers Board of Education, and contributing to lasting school improvements. Their leadership extends into the community through partnerships with the Yonkers Police and Fire Departments and service initiatives supporting families affected by recent storms and fires. Gorton’s city‑ and state‑recognized My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) and My Sister’s Keeper (MSK) chapters serve over 150 students, consistently lead at the district level, and have produced two New York State MBK Fellows in the past two years.
- The school further demonstrates its commitment to community by hosting large‑scale events such as its annual Touch‑A‑Truck initiative, which brings civic agencies together to educate and engage Yonkers residents. Through the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness—where students complete rigorous service projects that directly impact the city.
“The Mayor’s Spotlight Award reflects the exceptional work happening at Gorton High School. Principal Morales, the staff, and the students have created a community where future‑ready learning and health services can thrive,” said Board of Education President Dr. Rosalba Corrado Del Vecchio. “We celebrate their accomplishments and look forward to even more success ahead for such an important school.”
Superintendent of Schools Aníbal Soler, Jr. added, “Gorton High School continues to shine as a model of innovation and student leadership. For more than 100 years, Gorton has upheld a tradition of excellence, and I am glad to see that legacy continues under Principal Morales’ leadership. Principal Morales and the dedicated staff have built programs that truly prepare students for college, careers, and civic life. I am grateful for their hard work and incredibly proud of what the students are achieving each day.”
Mayor Spano’s School Spotlight Award highlights four Yonkers Public Schools within the academic school year for their significant academic success, extracurricular achievements, and community involvement.