December, 2002
Contact: Holly Brooker
(845) 255-1450 xt.1301

Recently, a PBS (Public Broadcasting System) production crew from Rochester, New York, arrived at the Ulster BOCES Career & Technical Center along with Marilyn Kucura, a representative from the New York State Education Department (NYSED), to film segments for an episode of the NYSED’s public television program entitled, “Tools for Schools.” The show, which aired on local PBS stations on December 11, is called, “Accessing the New York State Learning Standards through Career and Technical Education,” and highlighted the integration of academics into career and technical education programs.

“Tools for Schools” is a series of professional development video programs for teachers, educators, policy-makers, and parents. These programs are designed to improve student performance by keeping school administrators and classroom teachers informed about the latest NYSED initiatives and student assessments. These programs also bring to light best practices and innovative teaching methods. At the end of each episode, the producers provide “Tool Tips” to help schools adapt the techniques highlighted in the show to meet the needs of their students. Included are commentaries with various teachers, school administrators, and NYSED representatives.

According to the New York State Broadcast Network, the model of Career and Technical Education (CTE) in New York State is changing. Both new CTE programs and traditional courses of technical preparation study have high academic requirements, and schools across the State are integrating CTE classes with core academic subjects to give students access to skills called for by the NYS Learning Standards. “Tools for Schools” visited three high schools that have made extensive changes to their career and technical education programs, demonstrating that it is possible to provide students with high-quality career and technical education and still have them meet the rigorous New York State Learning Standards.

According to Howard Korn, director of Career & Technical Education and Adult Services at Ulster BOCES, the Culinary Arts program was selected by NYSED as one of only three schools in the country to be highlighted for this particular episode of the “Tools for Schools” program. “The Career & Technical Center is part of the national High Schools That Work (HSTW) initiative and we have an excellent reputation in this affiliation. Additionally, our Culinary Arts program is NYSED-approved and is a member of the National Restaurant Association. This is a wonderful opportunity for the Career & Technical Center to share their practices, and we are proud to be recognized for it and to be a part of ‘Tools for Schools’.”

Under the national HSTW program, a framework of goals and 10 Key Practices are provided for high schools to follow that enables them to provide improved academic, as well as career and technical instruction. It is the belief that most students can learn complex academic and technical concepts if they are taught in an effective learning environment.

The Ulster BOCES Career & Technical Center has been evaluated by the New York State Education Department and has been commended for their leadership role in the High Schools That Work program. ”