In NCOC's Culinary CTE program, we recently had our first student complete her internship through Work-Based Learning with Sundaes Restaurant. Lilly successfully completed an eight-week internship, gaining valuable hands-on experience and growing her skills in a real culinary environment.
We are incredibly grateful to Sundaes Restaurant And Tasty Freeze for partnering with us, supporting our students, and collaborating so closely throughout this experience.
Thank you, Andy, Deb, and the entire staff — we truly appreciate you!
“Starting my work experience at Sundaes as the first student of the year felt overwhelming, but Andy made the transition easy. He was patient and encouraging, which helped me adjust. I enjoyed practicing my culinary skills in a real restaurant and appreciated the balance of help and independence. I am truly thankful for this opportunity- it boosted my confidence and made me excited for future work in the culinary field.”
– Lilly, Culinary Student at NCOC
#workbasedlearning #weareCTENY
Our New Visions Engineering students explored some of Cornell University’s most cutting-edge facilities! They toured the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS) particle accelerator, learned about its research impact, visited the Biomedical Engineering labs for a hands-on experience of hatching, dissecting, and inspecting chicken embryos, paying close attention to the heart and ventricular systems. They then suited up in full “bunny suits” to step inside Cornell’s Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE) clean room for a close look at semiconductor processing.
Students also explored Cornell’s maker spaces at the Experiential Learning Lab, where they heard from project teams working on a range of projects, including underwater robots, autonomous sailboats, and green-energy vehicles. The students were able to see the fascinating worlds of cutting-edge research while gaining a better understanding of what their path as engineers may be, instilling confidence and eagerness in them.
Students also explored Cornell’s maker spaces at the Experiential Learning Lab, where they heard from project teams working on a range of projects, including underwater robots, autonomous sailboats, and green-energy vehicles. The students were able to see the fascinating worlds of cutting-edge research while gaining a better understanding of what their path as engineers may be, instilling confidence and eagerness in them.
Four of our students, including both our senior and junior chapter presidents from NCOC and OAOC, attended the SkillsUSA Fall Leadership Conference this month. We are proud of our SkillsUSA leaders!
ONC BOCES Itinerant Services provides districts with access to highly specialized professionals who support students with diverse learning needs across our region. From Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing to Vision Services, Speech Providers, Occupational and Physical Therapists, School Social Workers, English as a New Language Teachers, and more—our itinerant staff bring targeted expertise directly into classrooms and school communities.
This shared-service model not only expands district capacity but also strengthens collaboration through consistent communication with teachers, administrators, and CSE teams. By partnering closely with districts, itinerant staff help solve problems related to student needs, enhance instructional practices, and ensure continuity of services across various settings.
Internally, Itinerant Services serve as a vital connector within BOCES, aligning programs, sharing resources, and supporting innovative approaches to student success. Externally, they reinforce strong, trusted district partnerships built on responsiveness, expertise, and a shared commitment to equitable education for all students.
ONC BOCES is proud to provide this essential service that elevates student outcomes, strengthens district capacity, and supports every learner—wherever they are.
This shared-service model not only expands district capacity but also strengthens collaboration through consistent communication with teachers, administrators, and CSE teams. By partnering closely with districts, itinerant staff help solve problems related to student needs, enhance instructional practices, and ensure continuity of services across various settings.
Internally, Itinerant Services serve as a vital connector within BOCES, aligning programs, sharing resources, and supporting innovative approaches to student success. Externally, they reinforce strong, trusted district partnerships built on responsiveness, expertise, and a shared commitment to equitable education for all students.
ONC BOCES is proud to provide this essential service that elevates student outcomes, strengthens district capacity, and supports every learner—wherever they are.
New Visions Engineering Class of 2026 visited the College of Nanotechnology, Science, and Engineering at the University at Albany for an in-depth look at one of the most advanced research facilities in the country!
Led by the long-time guide, Mr. Stewart, students explored the fascinating world of computer chip design — from learning how automation shapes the process to also seeing computer-aided design (CAD) software in action in Dr. Redjem’s lab. They also gained insight into how plasma and silicon are used in chip and wafer manufacturing and heard from Mr. Colwill and Mr. Warfield about the power of nanoscale technology.
Entering the corridor to view the clean room, students caught a glimpse of the rapid construction and growth of the labs, as well as the fascinating transportation systems overhead. Further along, the group was given another view, capturing just how large and advanced the clean rooms are, as well as the precautions taken to minimize any outside factors.
A big thank you to Mr. Stewart, who has guided this trip for the past 15 years and has been involved with New Visions Engineering since its earliest days, helping shape the program into what it is today!
Led by the long-time guide, Mr. Stewart, students explored the fascinating world of computer chip design — from learning how automation shapes the process to also seeing computer-aided design (CAD) software in action in Dr. Redjem’s lab. They also gained insight into how plasma and silicon are used in chip and wafer manufacturing and heard from Mr. Colwill and Mr. Warfield about the power of nanoscale technology.
Entering the corridor to view the clean room, students caught a glimpse of the rapid construction and growth of the labs, as well as the fascinating transportation systems overhead. Further along, the group was given another view, capturing just how large and advanced the clean rooms are, as well as the precautions taken to minimize any outside factors.
A big thank you to Mr. Stewart, who has guided this trip for the past 15 years and has been involved with New Visions Engineering since its earliest days, helping shape the program into what it is today!
In celebration of World Kindness Day, students passed out hot cocoa with kindness messages to fellow students and staff!
Innovative Programs students have been busy the last few weeks! At the October Board of Education meeting, Gabe and Bryson, along with NCOC Crisis Intervention Specialist, Mr. Conklin, shared highlights of their unique learning experiences.
Trust students have been learning through play with Miss Tori, supported by Ms. Reed (School Counselor), who leads SEL lessons through the Choose Love Movement curriculum.
Trust students have been learning through play with Miss Tori, supported by Ms. Reed (School Counselor), who leads SEL lessons through the Choose Love Movement curriculum.
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.
