ONC BOCES hosted its Annual Advisory Committee Dinners at NCOC and OAOC. Career and Technical Education (CTE) advisory committees bring together industry and higher education professionals to collaborate with CTE instructors in updating, developing, and improving programs at our centers.
These committees play a crucial role in ensuring that students acquire the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary for success. Members provide valuable input on curriculum, equipment, articulation agreements, and employability skills — helping to connect classrooms to careers and build a strong, well-trained workforce.
It was an honor to welcome industry professionals, higher education partners, and CTE instructors to our recent advisory meetings! We had 70 participants at NCOC and 75 at OAOC, all dedicated to supporting our students’ success and shaping the future of CTE. Thank you for your partnership and continued support!
If you’re an industry professional interested in joining a CTE advisory committee, contact Amber Lape at: alape@oncboces.org
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These committees play a crucial role in ensuring that students acquire the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary for success. Members provide valuable input on curriculum, equipment, articulation agreements, and employability skills — helping to connect classrooms to careers and build a strong, well-trained workforce.
It was an honor to welcome industry professionals, higher education partners, and CTE instructors to our recent advisory meetings! We had 70 participants at NCOC and 75 at OAOC, all dedicated to supporting our students’ success and shaping the future of CTE. Thank you for your partnership and continued support!
If you’re an industry professional interested in joining a CTE advisory committee, contact Amber Lape at: alape@oncboces.org
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Mechatronics students represented ONC BOCES at a New York State Board of Regents Expo Event in Albany on November 3rd. Padraig, Angelina, Julieanna, and Jerry wowed the Regents with their demonstration of Mechatronics - currently the only Career and Technical Education (CTE) program of its kind in New York State. 33 BOCES attended the event, showcasing a variety of programs offered across the state. CTE programs in New York are vital to training our workforce and developing talented young professionals. Congratulations to Padraig, Angelina, Julieanna, and Jerry for superbly representing their Mechatronics class and ONC BOCES!
ONC BOCES School Library System (SLS) was proud to partner with OHM SLS and MO SLS BOCES for this year’s Library Leatherstocking Conference, held in downtown Utica on October 30th!
This annual event brought together library professionals for a full day of workshops, trainings, and a busy vendor floor. Thanks to grant-funded scholarships, ONC SLS was able to send 10 librarians from across our region — with lodging and registration fully covered!
Rae Sobers (Oneonta Middle School Library), Aurora Cookhouse, and Melanie Goodwin (Gilboa-Conesville Library) led engaging sessions on Media Literacy and Using AI as a Tool in the Library.
This annual event brought together library professionals for a full day of workshops, trainings, and a busy vendor floor. Thanks to grant-funded scholarships, ONC SLS was able to send 10 librarians from across our region — with lodging and registration fully covered!
Rae Sobers (Oneonta Middle School Library), Aurora Cookhouse, and Melanie Goodwin (Gilboa-Conesville Library) led engaging sessions on Media Literacy and Using AI as a Tool in the Library.
Congratulations to Culinary Arts junior, Javier, from Charlotte Valley CS, for winning 1st place in the ProStart NY/VT Pumpkin Decorating Contest! He beat out every other entry in the state to take the top prize! We couldn’t be prouder of Javier's accomplishment!
NCOC held its 3rd Annual Pumpkin Decorating Contest, and the creativity was amazing! The 1st place winner in the student category was the Cosmetology Seniors, and the 1st place winner in the staff category was Sam Nick, representing the Central Business Office. Here you can see the top three pumpkins in each category, but we had 25 amazing entries overall. Thank you so much to the following farms that donated the pumpkins: Cindy’s Farm Stand, The Market, Perry’s Farm Stand, Story Farms, Sweet Meadows, and Willy’s Farm!
April Erkson, Director of Student Services, Jesse Bright, NCOC Principal, and Tera Talbot, OAOC Principal, attended the 2025 Association of Career and Technical Education Administrators conference in Utica. They spent three days learning about advances in CTE in New York, connecting with fellow CTE administrators, and working with industry experts to gain new resources. They are eager to help move forward with New York’s portrait of a graduate through CTE.
The New Visions Engineering students took an exciting field trip to Sportsfield Specialties in Delhi earlier this month!
They toured two production facilities (NY1 & NY2), learning how Sportsfield creates both small and large-scale products—from cutting and assembly to cleaning and painting.
Thank you to Mr. Buzzy and the Sportsfield team for sharing insights into engineering, manufacturing, and innovation. Students walked away inspired and with a deeper understanding of real-world engineering in action!
They toured two production facilities (NY1 & NY2), learning how Sportsfield creates both small and large-scale products—from cutting and assembly to cleaning and painting.
Thank you to Mr. Buzzy and the Sportsfield team for sharing insights into engineering, manufacturing, and innovation. Students walked away inspired and with a deeper understanding of real-world engineering in action!
Earlier this month, the New Visions Engineering Class of 2026 visited Syracuse University and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) for a day full of exploration and learning about the engineering programs offered!
At Syracuse University, students were welcomed by Mr. Hoster, Associate Director of Admissions, who shared insights on admissions, financial aid, and the many engineering programs offered. Students toured labs, classrooms, and innovation spaces, learning about Syracuse’s connection to Micron and the future of semiconductor tech. They also got a close-up look at student-led projects like Baja and Formula Racing teams!
Guided by engineering student Taylor Kellett, the group visited dorms and campus hotspots—plus reconnected with New Visions Engineering alumni now studying at SU and ESF!
At the JMA Wireless Dome, Ruby Liu shared exciting info about 5G advancements, stadium design, and tech infrastructure. 🏟️📡
The tour wrapped up at SUNY ESF, where Mr. Feola gave an overview of the school’s mission and admissions process. Students explored the campus, checked out the dorms, and even got to see the massive steam generator that powers ESF!
A big thank you to SU and ESF for hosting our future engineers!
At Syracuse University, students were welcomed by Mr. Hoster, Associate Director of Admissions, who shared insights on admissions, financial aid, and the many engineering programs offered. Students toured labs, classrooms, and innovation spaces, learning about Syracuse’s connection to Micron and the future of semiconductor tech. They also got a close-up look at student-led projects like Baja and Formula Racing teams!
Guided by engineering student Taylor Kellett, the group visited dorms and campus hotspots—plus reconnected with New Visions Engineering alumni now studying at SU and ESF!
At the JMA Wireless Dome, Ruby Liu shared exciting info about 5G advancements, stadium design, and tech infrastructure. 🏟️📡
The tour wrapped up at SUNY ESF, where Mr. Feola gave an overview of the school’s mission and admissions process. Students explored the campus, checked out the dorms, and even got to see the massive steam generator that powers ESF!
A big thank you to SU and ESF for hosting our future engineers!
It might not seem like it today, but winter is approaching! Here are some important tips from our Automotive Services program to help you prepare and stay safe in the upcoming months!
IMPORTANT ITEMS AND SERVICES TO PREPARE FOR WINTER DRIVING
*Check the condition and proper inflation of tires/Install snow tires
*Check for condition and proper level of all fluids
*Diesel Engines: check for proper operation of block heaters and glow plugs
*Check all vehicle lighting
*Check for proper operation of the heat and defroster
*Check the battery - both physical condition and state of charge
*Check the condition and inflation of the spare tire. If the vehicle is equipped with a space saver or donut spare, consider investing in a full-size spare if space permits.
*Check the condition and operation of the wipers
* Use Rainex type windshield washer fluid for water beading and improved visibility
SURVIVAL KIT ITEMS
*Jumper cables or compact jump starter
*Flashlight
*Shovel
*Road flares and reflective triangles
*Extra clothing
*Blankets
*Water/Non-perishable food
*Chain or tow strap
*Ice scraper
*First aid kit
*Phone charger
*Kitty litter (for additional traction when stuck)
*Tool kit (breaker bar with appropriate socket(s) for lug nuts)
*Toilet paper
*Extra fuel
*Extra fluids (coolant, oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, etc.)
*Life hammer (a tool that easily breaks windows and cuts seat belts in the event of an accident)
*Fix-a-flat or portable air compressor
IMPORTANT ITEMS AND SERVICES TO PREPARE FOR WINTER DRIVING
*Check the condition and proper inflation of tires/Install snow tires
*Check for condition and proper level of all fluids
*Diesel Engines: check for proper operation of block heaters and glow plugs
*Check all vehicle lighting
*Check for proper operation of the heat and defroster
*Check the battery - both physical condition and state of charge
*Check the condition and inflation of the spare tire. If the vehicle is equipped with a space saver or donut spare, consider investing in a full-size spare if space permits.
*Check the condition and operation of the wipers
* Use Rainex type windshield washer fluid for water beading and improved visibility
SURVIVAL KIT ITEMS
*Jumper cables or compact jump starter
*Flashlight
*Shovel
*Road flares and reflective triangles
*Extra clothing
*Blankets
*Water/Non-perishable food
*Chain or tow strap
*Ice scraper
*First aid kit
*Phone charger
*Kitty litter (for additional traction when stuck)
*Tool kit (breaker bar with appropriate socket(s) for lug nuts)
*Toilet paper
*Extra fuel
*Extra fluids (coolant, oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, etc.)
*Life hammer (a tool that easily breaks windows and cuts seat belts in the event of an accident)
*Fix-a-flat or portable air compressor
Fox New Visions Healthcare Professions students were asked to participate as patients in the Mass Casualty Incident Drill held yesterday between A.O. Fox Hospital and the Oneonta Fire Department. Five students acted as patients, with additional students accompanying friends/family.
The scenario was a rollover of a tour bus carrying a group of college students and simulated injuries ranged from just a mild abrasion on the arm to severe internal bleeding and closed head trauma. Students witnessed the Fire/EMS on-scene smart-triage and transport process, getting classified by suspected injury severity as a red (immediate), yellow (delayed), or green (non-urgent) patient. Thankfully, no black tags (deceased) among them! Then, transport to the Emergency Department was completed, and patients were re-evaluated by hospital staff with appropriate care steps and follow-up verbalized, including the necessary coordination of the Emergency Department with multiple other hospital departments to provide appropriate care for the influx of patients. We could also participate in the "hotwash" (debrief) afterwards, where the drill response was evaluated by all supervisors/department heads involved.
This is the largest drill of this variety that A.O. Fox Emergency Department has implemented since before COVID, and they were very appreciative of the student participation to help determine strengths and areas needing improvement. It was an excellent opportunity for students to get a "big picture" view of an emergency medical patient's experience and see the wide variety of emergency services and hospital staff working together to achieve the most appropriate patient care.
The scenario was a rollover of a tour bus carrying a group of college students and simulated injuries ranged from just a mild abrasion on the arm to severe internal bleeding and closed head trauma. Students witnessed the Fire/EMS on-scene smart-triage and transport process, getting classified by suspected injury severity as a red (immediate), yellow (delayed), or green (non-urgent) patient. Thankfully, no black tags (deceased) among them! Then, transport to the Emergency Department was completed, and patients were re-evaluated by hospital staff with appropriate care steps and follow-up verbalized, including the necessary coordination of the Emergency Department with multiple other hospital departments to provide appropriate care for the influx of patients. We could also participate in the "hotwash" (debrief) afterwards, where the drill response was evaluated by all supervisors/department heads involved.
This is the largest drill of this variety that A.O. Fox Emergency Department has implemented since before COVID, and they were very appreciative of the student participation to help determine strengths and areas needing improvement. It was an excellent opportunity for students to get a "big picture" view of an emergency medical patient's experience and see the wide variety of emergency services and hospital staff working together to achieve the most appropriate patient care.
NCOC was Poppin' with Positivity on Friday!
The SEL Committee sponsored a popcorn, positivity, and cozy day.
The SEL Committee sponsored a popcorn, positivity, and cozy day.
Congratulations to NCOC's Culinary Team for winning 1st place at SUNY Cobleskill High School Days for the third year in a row! This year, they had to make snack bars, and our team made New York-style pumpkin cheesecake bars.
Excellent work by Lily, Kylie, Abigail, and Hailey!
Excellent work by Lily, Kylie, Abigail, and Hailey!
The Southeast Regional Partnership Center (RPC) proudly ushered in the new academic year by supporting staff from OAOC and NCOC Innovative Programs in deepening their understanding of Positive Behavioral Support within the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. Building on last year’s collaborative efforts with ONC BOCES administrators and leaders, the RPC helped establish systems that empower educators and students to navigate and respond to challenging behaviors with confidence and care.
This summer, we welcomed two newly appointed Chairpeople in the ONC BOCES region. To ensure a strong start, the RPC provided tailored training and resources to equip them for success in their new roles.
Our commitment to professional growth continues through no-cost regional learning opportunities focused on high-impact topics, including:
• Secondary transition planning for students with disabilities
• The science of reading
• Co-teaching models
• Special education process training for local leaders
• De-escalation strategies to foster safe and supportive environments
As the school year unfolds, we are energized by the opportunity to convene districts around shared priorities—behavioral supports, transition planning, data-based decision-making, and meaningful family engagement. Our mission remains clear: to deliver evidence-based practices and strategies that empower educators to meet the diverse needs of every learner across our region.
This summer, we welcomed two newly appointed Chairpeople in the ONC BOCES region. To ensure a strong start, the RPC provided tailored training and resources to equip them for success in their new roles.
Our commitment to professional growth continues through no-cost regional learning opportunities focused on high-impact topics, including:
• Secondary transition planning for students with disabilities
• The science of reading
• Co-teaching models
• Special education process training for local leaders
• De-escalation strategies to foster safe and supportive environments
As the school year unfolds, we are energized by the opportunity to convene districts around shared priorities—behavioral supports, transition planning, data-based decision-making, and meaningful family engagement. Our mission remains clear: to deliver evidence-based practices and strategies that empower educators to meet the diverse needs of every learner across our region.
Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year!
On August 28th, all ONC BOCES staff gathered at the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center for a day of professional development, team building, and some fun!
Last week, we were happy to welcome students back to our buildings for a year of learning and connecting. We’re excited to see all the growth, achievements, and memories this school year will bring!
On August 28th, all ONC BOCES staff gathered at the Foothills Performing Arts and Civic Center for a day of professional development, team building, and some fun!
Last week, we were happy to welcome students back to our buildings for a year of learning and connecting. We’re excited to see all the growth, achievements, and memories this school year will bring!
The Bassett Medical Center and Fox Hospital New Visions Healthcare Professions programs administered through ONC BOCES are both excited for the start of the 25-26 school year on Thursday, September 4, 2025. Bassett will be welcoming 10 students from 5 area schools, while Fox hosts 9 students from 7 area districts. Students will spend their senior year earning up to 10 college credits through SUNY Oneonta while completing rotation experiences in 25 different departments. We appreciate being able to continue the 30-year relationship between ONC BOCES and Bassett Healthcare Network and look forward to another successful year!
26 regional school leaders gathered at Fort William Henry in Lake George for the annual Principals Academy for three days of collaboration, learning, and connection.
Sessions covered key legal topics in school leadership, math instruction, literacy data trends, the role and responsibilities of School Resource Officers (SROs), evolving policies and best practices around student cell phone use, navigating complex CSE decisions, and using AI to enhance faculty meetings.
Special thanks to Tara Moffet and Kerry Cunningham from Girvin & Ferlazzo Law Firm for their expertise and for presenting on some of these important topics.
Sessions covered key legal topics in school leadership, math instruction, literacy data trends, the role and responsibilities of School Resource Officers (SROs), evolving policies and best practices around student cell phone use, navigating complex CSE decisions, and using AI to enhance faculty meetings.
Special thanks to Tara Moffet and Kerry Cunningham from Girvin & Ferlazzo Law Firm for their expertise and for presenting on some of these important topics.
Please see our water test results for our OAOC and NCOC centers:
Congratulations to the 155 students at OAOC and the 83 students at NCOC who were honored during the Completers' Ceremonies last week! Through hard work, hands-on learning, and determination, they've gained real-world skills and set themselves up for a bright future! All of us at ONC BOCES couldn’t be prouder of you!
The Otsego Northern Catskills (ONC) BOCES Practical Nursing Program proudly celebrated the graduation of 23 dedicated students at a ceremony held on June 26, 2025, at Morris Hall, SUNY Oneonta. Surrounded by family, friends, and faculty, the graduates were honored for their perseverance and commitment to the nursing profession.
This year's ceremony featured an inspiring keynote address by Dr. Joan MacDonald, who encouraged graduates to continue their journey of lifelong learning and compassionate care despite the many personal and professional challenges they faced throughout the year.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the prestigious Daisy Award to graduate Kaylea Cetnar, recognizing her outstanding dedication, compassion, and excellence in patient care.
In a special moment of gratitude, the graduating class honored Professors Joan MacDonald, Jennifer Gerster, Laura Palada, and Leta Pasternak for their unwavering support and dedication to student success. These educators were celebrated for their tireless commitment to guiding students through a rigorous program and helping them achieve their professional goals.
The ONC BOCES Practical Nursing Program continues to serve as a vital pathway for aspiring nurses in the region, preparing graduates to enter the workforce with the skills and resilience necessary to make a meaningful difference in their communities.
This year's ceremony featured an inspiring keynote address by Dr. Joan MacDonald, who encouraged graduates to continue their journey of lifelong learning and compassionate care despite the many personal and professional challenges they faced throughout the year.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the prestigious Daisy Award to graduate Kaylea Cetnar, recognizing her outstanding dedication, compassion, and excellence in patient care.
In a special moment of gratitude, the graduating class honored Professors Joan MacDonald, Jennifer Gerster, Laura Palada, and Leta Pasternak for their unwavering support and dedication to student success. These educators were celebrated for their tireless commitment to guiding students through a rigorous program and helping them achieve their professional goals.
The ONC BOCES Practical Nursing Program continues to serve as a vital pathway for aspiring nurses in the region, preparing graduates to enter the workforce with the skills and resilience necessary to make a meaningful difference in their communities.
NCOC recently held a heartwarming Moving Up Ceremony to celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of its Elementary and Middle School students. Families and friends gathered to honor the students, who were recognized for their achievements throughout the school year. The celebration was made even more special as students sang their hearts out, delivering joyful performances that lit up the ceremony. Their dedication, effort, and growth were on full display—each student truly earned their moment of recognition!
