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Pathways Academy Students Reflect on Past Year
Pathways Academy Students Reflect on Past Year

Ulster BOCES Hudson Valley Pathways Academy (HVPA) students presented their final projects for the year to an audience of educators, industry leaders, and family members on June 7 at SUNY Ulster's satellite campus in Kingston.

This final project offered students the opportunity to reflect on the past year - what they learned, how they improved, and what areas they should focus on for next year.

Not all students succeed in a traditional school environment. That was made evident when students discussed how HVPA gave them a new outlook on their education, future, and dreams. Students credited small class sizes, workplace learning, caring teachers, and individual learning plans as the reasons for their success.

Freshman student Dani Coy of Kingston City School District says, "HVPA has been a blessing." Coy moved to America three years ago from Guatemala and said acclimating to America's education system along with having to learn a new language has been very challenging, but he's found the support he needs to succeed. "HVPA instructors are very encouraging and supportive," he explained.

HVPA Principal Dr. Jonah Schenker said, "We hope our students will take an opportunity to savor the moment and appreciate all of the hard work that goes into successfully completing one educational milestone and moving on to the next challenge. There is much cause for celebration."

The mission of HVPA is to develop and support pathways to higher education that lead to careers in science, technology, engineering, and math through rigorous academic programming and work-based learning through industry partners. This program lets students earn an associate's degree while preparing them to transition into career fields within the region. The program also matches students with mentors from industry partners.

To find out more about the Hudson Valley Pathways Academy program, visit www.ulsterboces.org.