April, 2001
Contact: Holly Brooker
(845) 255-1450 xt.1301

The centerpieces of the new site are the state-of-the-art computer classrooms, which feature the latest technological advances in both equipment and software. Students will use the classrooms to learn everything from basic computer use skills to high-level CISCO and LAN (Local Area Network) training. One of the three computer "labs" features an individual server linked just to the computers in that classroom, serving as a hands-on learning tool that will allow technical students the chance to explore its operation first-hand. Ulster BOCES will also conduct professional staff development classes and seminars at Edgewater, especially in the various Information Technology areas.

Another major function of the new Edgewater site is as headquarters of the New Visions Career Exploration program. Attended by students from high schools throughout Ulster County, New Visions provides the opportunity for high-achieving high school seniors to examine various career options. Different types of jobs in the fields of healthcare, education, law, environmental technology, and communications/journalism are explored in-depth and related back to the students' academic studies. A social studies course, for example, might concentrate on the economics of patient care, illustrating to students how education and the working world are intertwined. The half-day program allows students to intern in a variety of professional environments for part of the day and attend the remainder of their core classes at their own community high schools.

"In the ever-changing field of Information Technology, the demand for skilled employees in this area is growing. Reaching out to local business and industry is a primary concern of the Ulster BOCES Career & Technical Center," says Howard Korn, director of the Career & Technical Center. "One of our goals is to meet the needs of area businesses. This location is in the center of new growth and industry in the area. The Edgewater satellite will strive to offer school districts, students, and the business community the services that they need."