My-Eisha McGill, a security monitor at Giffen Elementary School in Albany’s South End, is going beyond the curriculum. She started an after school program, “The Gatorettes,” to teach students about comfort, confidence and style.

The program encourages students to come to school to learn in their classes, because they also want to participate in this program.

The activities include learning how to do dance, hair, nails and fashion.

Before they could learn about the fun side of fashion though, McGill said they had to learn how to sew – no exceptions.

The students’ designs were featured last month in a window display in Albany.

McGill looks forward to continuing the program, saying it’s now blossomed into a sisterhood as students build their confidence.

See some of what the students have created, by watching the video.