YOUNGSTOWN - East Middle School and Chaney Middle School brought its female students together for a day full of empowerment. 

The Valentine's Empowerment Expo is an annual event held at East Middle School; however, with the upcoming mergers next school year, the Youngstown City School District brought both East and Chaney middle schools together so all its female students could participate.

The expo featured music, activities and a Valentine's Day-themed fashion show.

Youngstown City Schools Superintendent Jeremy Batchelor was also in attendance, praising the message the expo showcases for young women.

"They've been doing it for several years at East Middle School, celebrating our young ladies, empowering them, encouraging them, teaching them how to love themselves, how to love each other, and this year, we had the opportunity to bring both schools together," said Superintendent Batchelor.

Additionally, Superintendent Jeremy Batchelor says information tables were provided for the female students to learn more about empowering themselves and those around them. 

"When I walked in, they were celebrating, dancing together, having a good time...going around from table to table and getting information so they seem to be loving it," said Superintendent Batchelor.