Tucker Chase is an outstanding example of what young scholars at the Hudson Valley Pathways Academy (HVPA) at Ulster BOCES can achieve. Tucker has been awarded a scholarship from the Career Readiness Educators Association (CREA) of New York State for his exemplary participation in a work-based learning program or experience. Tucker was also named as one of three “Work-Based Learning Students of the Year” by CREA. 

Ulster County students enrolled in the Ulster BOCES Career & Technical Center (CTC) and Hudson Valley Pathways Academy (HVPA) are earning a strong reputation for their workplace learning success across New York State by taking on various roles where they are able to showcase their career readiness.

More than a dozen students, known as young professionals at CTC and young scholars at HVPA, recently played pivotal roles in the New York State Career Readiness Educators Association (NYS CREA) Conference. The event brought career and technical teachers, administrators, and work-based learning coordinators from across New York State together at the Venue Uptown in Kingston, New York, for a two-day professional development and networking experience designed to support members in providing their students with "real-world" career development opportunities. 

Recognition of and appreciation for the value of career and technical education as an engine for economic and workforce development was on full display on June 20 during the groundbreaking event for the future Ulster BOCES Career Pathways Academies at iPark 87. United States Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, New York State Commissioner of Education Dr. Betty A. Rosa, U.S. Congressman Pat Ryan, and Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger joined Ulster BOCES District Superintendent Dr. Jonah Schenker and a group of students who attend the Career & Technical Center (known as young professionals) to discuss the programs and opportunities available to them.

The Ulster BOCES Hudson Valley Pathways Academy (HVPA) marked a significant milestone on May 30, staging a Completion Celebration for 10 young scholars who had successfully completed six years of rigorous academic and professional training at HVPA and SUNY Ulster. The event was hosted by one of HVPA’s industry partners, the Highland-based Selux Corporation.

During a breakfast presentation on May 17, held at the Season’s onsite restaurant at the Ulster BOCES Career & Technical Center, 36 young professionals from the Class of ‘24 received more than $19,000 in scholarships.