A virtual Open House for parents and students interested in attending the Ulster BOCES Career & Technical Center is planned for February 17, 2022. Participants can attend a session at either 5 PM or 6 PM, or can attend both if they would like to preview additional programs. Parents and Grade 10 students interested in the two-year career training programs or Grade 11 students interested in the Pre-University/New Visions Career Exploration programs should visit http://www.ulsterboces.org/recruit22 on the day of the open house to access Zoom links to join the information sessions. The snow date for this event is February 22.

Virtual visits with the instructors of the 25 different hands-on, real-world programs offered at the Ulster BOCES Career & Technical Center will be offered, some of which include animal science, culinary arts, healthcare, engineering, robotics, aviation, education, technology, and more.

In addition to the two-year programs, juniors can also learn about a senior year opportunity available via the rigorous Pre-University/New Visions program, which, in addition to classwork and the opportunity to earn 12 college credits, places students in the field alongside professionals for part of their school day. New Visions programs are available in Advanced Robotics & Engineering, Health, Education, and Music & Audio Engineering.

In addition to the open house, Ulster BOCES Career & Technical Center school counselors and instructors will be visiting several Ulster County high schools in February to discuss the various programs that are available to juniors and seniors. Students who are currently enrolled in Career and Technical Education programs will be presenting to the sophomores throughout the scheduled school days. Students interested in attending the informational sessions should speak with their guidance counselors for additional details. The informational visits to the schools are scheduled as follows:

·          Rondout Valley High School on February 1 and 2. The snow date is February 3.

·          Highland High School on February 8. The snow date is February 11.

·          Kingston High School on February 4. The snow date is February 9.

Principal Amy Storenski encourages all Ulster County School District students to check out what the Career & Technical Center has to offer. “With local businesses and industries facing labor shortages as the economy begins to recover from the pandemic recession, it is more important than ever to provide students with workforce training and a solid foundation for post-secondary education,” she said.

According to Storenski, upon successful completion of coursework, many career programs allow students to earn college credits while in high school, and some qualify students for industry-related licenses and certifications. More than 40 articulation agreements are in place. Through a blended approach of classroom instruction, hands-on learning, and worksite assignments, students build specific skills related to a career area. Programs are designed with input from business and industry partners. Career & Technical Education is a valuable career path for students interested in going on to college or directly entering the workforce.

For more information, contact the Career & Technical Center at 845.331.6680 or visit www.ulsterboces.org/cte.