Paterson Students’ Custom Race Car Selected to be Showcased at New York Auto Show

Paterson, NJ (March 19, 2026) – A student-created 1974 Ford Capri race car restored by this year’s Paterson Public Schools’ Youth Empowered Stewardship (YES) Program cohort has been selected to be featured at the Rides + Rigs Expo (R2XPO) as part of the upcoming New York International Auto Show. The exhibition, held at the Javits Center in New York City from April 3 to 12, marks a major milestone for the YES Program and its innovative hands-on learning initiatives.

The Race Car project allowed students to collaborate with professional design teams and automotive industry experts to restore the vintage vehicle. By using stickers and decals to express their creativity, the students designed a car that perfectly captured this year’s R2XPO theme “Celebrating Uniqueness in the Car Community and Culture”. The completed vehicle, which was restored by artist and sculptor Dr. David Byer-Tyre, was first unveiled on January 7 at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Educational Complex following months of planning and development.

“Congratulations to this exceptional group of students on having their work selected for the New York International Auto Show,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Laurie W. Newell. “The Race Car project is a powerful testament to the incredible skill and determination of our YES Program students. Showcasing their work on a world-class stage like the New York International Auto Show is a fitting tribute to their dedication and ingenuity.”

Under the leadership of Assistant Superintendent Dr. Cicely Warren and Assistant Superintendent Dr. David Cozart, the YES Program engages students in art-based experiences and discussions designed to build skills and promote community impact through empowerment stewardship, personal journeys, and community action.

“The selection of our students’ work for the New York International Auto Show is an amazing accomplishment that these students will never forget,” said Dr. Warren. “Seeing their hard work displayed on this stage proves that when students are given the right resources and mentorship, there is no limit to what they can achieve.”