Accomplished women inspire Sparta students to succeed

SPARTA - Students in Mohawk Avenue School and Sparta Middle School recently had the opportunity to learn first hand about some exciting careers. In celebration of Women's History Month the two schools hosted their annual Women of Achievement Breakfasts to introduce students to the many career choices available. At the Middle School, LuAnn Ascani, health care administrator; Sue Jesperson, policewoman; Dr. Nancy Sulla, entrepreneur and educator and Dr. Karen Dashfield, veterinarian spoke to an overflow crowd of students, administrators and faculty. The speakers shared their experiences relating the importance of education no matter what career a student may ultimately choose. Mohawk Avenue School's program featured Margaret Chanin, fashion/merchandising expert; realtor Susan Hoffman; attorney Lorraine Insley; Robin Sands, flight attendant and Dr. Leah Schonfield-DeBitetto. These popular annual events are held before school and are well received by girls and boys. Most of the speakers are parents of students or members of the community. Their speeches had one common piece of advice and that was that "You can do anything you want to do as long as you are willing to work hard."