PNW BOCES Services Guide 2023-2024

Dear Colleagues:

Dear Colleagues,

The Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES mission of Service and Innovation through Partnership guides our work as we strive to provide our 18 component districts with high quality, cost- effective programs and services With this in mind, I am proud to share with you the 2020–2021 PNW BOCES Services Guide, containing numerous highly innovative and customer-responsive services that are repeatedly recognized for excellence throughout our region, state and nation.

The PNW BOCES mission of “Service and Innovation through Partnership” has long guided our work as we strive to provide our 18 component districts with high quality, cost-effective programs and services. With this in mind, I am pleased to share with you the 2023–2024 Putnam|Northern Westchester BOCES Services Guide, containing numerous highly innovative and customer-responsive services that are consistently recognized for excellence throughout our region, state and nation.

Our Career and Technical Education Center provides a wide range of training opportunities to middle and high school students, including our Career Academies, which integrate academics with state- of-the-art technical training for hundreds of students from our region. Each year, we also teach thousands of adult learners who are exploring new career options, learning English or working to complete their high school education. Our Special Education division features programs that encourage self-sufficiency and educational success for severely challenged students, as well as providing unique educational experiences for students who are disengaged.

Our Career and Technical Education Center provides a wide range of exciting career opportunities to middle and high school students. While attending our Career Academies, students can integrate academics with state-of-the-art technical training. Each year, we also teach thousands of adult learners who are exploring new career options, learning English or working to complete their high school education.

Our Special Education division features programs that encourage self-sufficiency and educational success for severely challenged students, as well as providing unique educational experiences for students who are disengaged.

We take great pride in offering a rich menu of professional development options through our Curriculum Center. Here, educators expand their horizons in highly regarded programs in instruction, assessment, crisis management, data analysis and locally developed state- of-the-art curriculum. Our Center for Educational Leadership features professional development and degree programs for current and aspiring school leaders, offered through our partnership with several prestigious institutions of higher learning. Our Regional Personnel Services, including our highly acclaimed Online Application Service (OLAS), serves nearly 600 school districts throughout New York State, assisting in the recruitment of exceptional candidates for district vacancies.

We take great pride in presenting a rich menu of professional learning options and district supports through our Professional Learning Division. Whether it is through our Curriculum Center, Center for Educational Leadership, Guidance and Child Study Center, or Regional Partnership Center, we offer state-of-the-art training in curriculum, instruction, and assessment. We also offer opportunities for current and aspiring school leaders to participate in professional learning and degree programs through our partnerships with several prestigious institutions of higher learning. Our Regional Personnel Services, including our highly acclaimed Online Application Service (OLAS), serves over 600 school districts throughout New York State, assisting in the recruitment of exceptional candidates for district vacancies.

Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES is proud to work closely with our component school districts to develop the best possible responses for their service needs. Our partnerships work to ensure the success of all students and educators in our region.

Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES is proud to work closely with our component school districts to develop the best possible responses for their service needs. Our partnerships work to ensure the success of all students and educators in our region.

Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES A Brief History

Our BOCES story began 75 years ago, on September 9, 1948, in what was referred to as Upper Westchester County as the second BOCES in New York State.

Within a decade, the Upper Westchester Board of Cooperative Educational Services had grown to serve almost 1,000 students taught by more than 40 shared professional staff. By 1968, close to 800 students participated in our special education programs, offered in 20 buildings in three locations, and a day camp in Yorktown for 200 students.

Meanwhile, Putnam BOCES opened in 1957, and within seven years employed 35 full- and part-time staff members teaching 220 vocational students in four Putnam County locations. These combined to form a Tech Center in Carmel in 1967. In 1969, Putnam and Northern Westchester BOCES merged, and plans were developed to build on the 240-acre campus in Yorktown Heights to consolidate services.

Welcoming its first students in 1973, Putnam | Northern Westchester (PNW) BOCES evolved into the caring, committed and collaborative educational enterprise it is today.

The 1970s witnessed the creation of many programs including outdoor education, cosmetology, culinary arts, as well as an adult education program, a preschool program for students with special needs, a learning center for students with emotional challenges, an alternative high school, and a high school equivalency program.

Today, PNW BOCES adheres to its mission of providing “service and innovation through partnership” with school districts, and offers cost-effective programs to thousands of children, adolescents and adults through a central agency with program locations on two campuses and throughout nine sites.

Approximately 600 employees and another 200 hourly and per diem staff work at PNW BOCES. Each year, the organization serves more than 1,400 Career and Technical Education students and approximately 400 children with special needs.

In addition, about 25,000 education professionals take advantage of curriculum and instruction and guidance programming; more than 1,500 school leaders from 150 school districts participate in the Center for Educational Leadership’s offerings; 2,000 adults attend continuing education programs; and almost 600 school districts take advantage of PNW BOCES’ management services programs, including the online application system, OLAS.

Through the Center for Environmental Education, some 40,000 students each year participate in various outdoor and environmental education programs. With a vision to be the state’s premier educational service provider, PNW BOCES has a "we can do that" approach to provide innovative, high quality, fiscally responsible services that lead to pathways to success for every student.

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION

The mission of the Career and Technical Education Center (CTE) is to integrate career and technical education with rigorous academic coursework, preparing students for success in college as well as direct entry into a career. By utilizing community resources, the Tech Center awards college credit and scholarships to students who complete a course of study and attain a sufficient level of achievement.

CATHERINE BALESTRIERI DIRECTOR

cbalestrieri@pnwboces.org (914) 248-2452

SAMANTHA VREDENBURGH ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR svredenburgh@pnwboces.org

Pathways to Success for Every Student

COMMUNICATIONS CAREER ACADEMY CO-SER

ANIMATION AND MOTION GRAPHICS

Students will be exposed to the professional world of 3D animation and 2D motion graphics. Industry software, such as Autodesk Maya, 3ds Max, Mudbox, Adobe After Effects and Flash Professional, will be used throughout the curriculum. All students will develop a digital portfolio to showcase their talent and imagination. Upon completion of the course, students will have a strong base for further education and career opportunities.

CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND EDUCATION I

This program features integrated academic and professional instruction, competency-based field experience in established early childhood programs and preparation for postsecondary study in early childhood education. Course content will include child development, teaching techniques, observation and record-keeping skills, behavior management, social skills, child psychology and working with children with special needs. Students will be expected to work effectively as team members in both the classroom and the workplace. They will explore different career options, evaluate personal strengths and develop short- and long-term goals.

CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND EDUCATION II

This program is designed for students who are considering a career in teaching or child care in the early-childhood field. The course focuses specifically on working with children from birth through age 8. The program features integrated academic and professional instruction, competency-based field experience and preparation for postsecondary study. Course content includes program management, child development, creative arts, literacy and language development, working with special needs children and working with families. Students are expected to work effectively as team members in both the classroom and workplace. Students in this program pursue a postsecondary degree at two- or four-year colleges. Students participate in a yearlong internship working with district students in an area of their choice.

GRAPHIC DESIGN AND DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Students will learn design skills necessary to use the computer as an artist’s tool. They will build a strong foundation in the graphics programs Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop and the page layout program Adobe InDesign. They will also be introduced to 3D graphics and webpage design techniques. All students develop portfolios and most pursue a postsecondary degree.

DIGITAL FILM AND SOUND/SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING

Students will learn to operate state-of-the-art field and studio equipment. Through guided projects, students produce, direct and edit professional programs and short films. Students will be involved in activities such as audio and video editing, stage setup, storyboarding and lighting. They will explore concepts and practices in film and television production. Students will learn the fundamentals of sound, including microphone technique, tracking, editing, mixing and mastering. This course introduces students to the tools and practices of sound in a professional environment.

Students will learn the basic techniques to create and edit videos for social media. Focus will be on social media platforms such as Facebook (Meta), Instagram, and YouTube. Students will learn how to identify and target an audience, create footage to market a brand, promote a brand on social media, increase awareness and drive traffic.

FASHION DESIGN AND MERCHANDISING

Students will be introduced to both the design and merchandising aspects of the fashion industry. In a fully equipped classroom, the students will learn the tools and acquire the skills to create a garment from beginning to end. They will study fashion history, merchandising, design theory, fashion illustration, visual merchandising and textiles. The fast-paced, hands-on classroom becomes a true design studio when students prepare for the annual fashion show. All students develop a portfolio and most pursue a postsecondary degree.

MICROCOMPUTER TECHNOLOGY/CYBERSECURITY/ PROGRAMMING/CODING/GAMING

Students will learn the fundamentals of three different areas of information technology (IT): programming (mostly game programming), computer repair (A+ certification), and cybersecurity. Students will work on projects such as repairing computers, designing and programming games, and testing how hackers enter a computer. The students will learn about the many diverse careers available in the IT industry (including game programmer, hardware repair technician, and information security officer). Students will create and maintain their own portfolio of job search documents including resume, cover letter, thank you letter, elevator pitches, and list of references.

CONSTRUCTION CAREER ACADEMY

CO-SER 107

ARCHITECTURE/ENGINEERING

The Architecture and Design Lab is for student innovators who learn by doing. Students are challenged to take on the world’s messy problems. Together, students develop a way to produce creative solutions. This process requires collaboration from Engineering and Design disciplines. Sophisticated computer technologies are employed in creating accurately scaled 3D models.

CARPENTRY

The Carpentry curriculum exposes entry-level students to a broad range of areas including rough and finished carpentry using residential construction materials, practices and procedures. In this course, students receive hands-on instruction in the proper use of the most currently used hand and power tools. Safety is always a major emphasis. Upon completion of the two-year program, students can become apprentices or carpentry helpers or pursue a construction technology program at the postsecondary level.

CONSTRUCTION ELECTRICITY

In this program, students will learn, through hands-on training, the fundamentals of electrical theory and acquire the techniques and skills necessary to wire and install electrical service in residential and commercial buildings. They will also learn to read and interpret blueprints and electrical plans; plan and install wiring, including, but not limited to, armored cable, metal clad cable, Romex and electrical conduits. Students will become familiar with the requirements of The National Electrical Code.

HEATING/VENTILATING/AIR CONDITIONING/ PLUMBING/PIPE FITTING

Students will develop skills such as pipe fitting, soldering and brazing. Basic electrical wiring, controls and system installations are taught as well. Heating systems, from heat-pumps and oil and gas-fired boilers to geothermal, are examined in-depth. Students receive training on everything from basic ice makers to more advanced commercial refrigeration equipment. Modern tools of the HVAC business are used in training activities. Student training is centered on using real field equipment, while performing actual repairs and adjustments.

NEW VISIONS ENGINEERING

This is an academically rigorous one-year program for collegebound high school seniors who plan to major in an engineering discipline. Students receive instruction in calculus, physics and various engineering principles. They explore the world of engineering through hands-on projects that integrate academic and engineering concepts. Job-shadowing opportunities and site visits throughout the year enable students to see firsthand the activities and responsibilities related to various engineering disciplines. Introductory instruction in working on hybrid and electric vehicles will be included in the New Visions Engineering curriculurm. Students will have the opportunity to pursue further training and certifications in hybrid/electric.

INTRODUCTION TO CONSTRUCTION TRADES

This program will introduce students to engineering principles and concepts in a variety of engineering, technology and related scientific fields. The course is open to high school freshmen and sophomores and will have a strong hands-on component. Through project-based learning students will be exposed to microcomputer control technology, computer coding, electronics, and mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering.

PRESERVATION/RESTORATION/COMMERCIAL MASONRY

Students learn construction and masonry art skills through the NCCER Curriculum and can gain national credit. Training is mostly hands-on, using different types of tools, equipment and materials used in the construction field to build individual and group projects. With safety training through OSHA, students will get scaffold awareness and be able to receive their 10-hour card. They will interpret building plans, estimate jobs and discuss managing construction sites.

URBAN FORESTRY/ HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLING

Students will study tree biology, anatomy and physiology; soil and water management; and insect and disease diagnosis. Tree care will emphasize climbing (optional), pruning, moving/installation and felling. The urban forestry component will teach design and construction, plant installation and care, heavy equipment operation and surveying. Activities include chainsaw use and maintenance and computer-assisted landscape design. Students will also learn how to start and maintain their own business.

With the increased need to bury fiber optics, electrical lines, water pipes, sewer lines, etc. Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) is becoming the most efficient option and the fastest-growing type of equipment for utilities, municipalities, contractors and the communications industry. Through a combination of classroom and field training sessions, students will acquire the knowledge and skills required for operating a directional drill efficiently and safely.

UTILITY FIELD TECHNICIAN

Instruction in underground utility damage prevention to protect infrastructure and critical assets will be included in the heavy equipment curriculum. Students will have the opportunity to pursue certification and a career path as a utility field technician.

WELDING

Students entering the program will learn all the fundamentals of welding and welding safety, practice a variety of welding methods, and make projects within their abilities. We follow the NCCER Curriculum, which encompasses general construction knowledge such as job site safety, applied math, blueprint reading, communications skills, materials handling, and much more. This course covers joining metal and alloys using oxyacetylene (gas welding), shielded metal-arc (stick welding), gas metal-arc (MIG welding) and gas tungsten-arc (TIG or Heliarc welding).

COSMETOLOGY CAREER ACADEMY

CO-SER 107

BARBERING

This program will prepare students for a career in barbering, with training in the skills necessary to pursue state licensing and take the barbering practical exam. The barbering program also includes hands-on experience in hair styling, cutting, clipping and shaving. Upon completion of the program, students will be eligible to sit for the New York State Barbering Practical Exam.

COSMETOLOGY I AND II

Students learn the fundamentals of cosmetology and acquire the techniques and skills necessary to be a successful cosmetologist. The course includes hair styling, hair coloring, haircutting, cosmetics and nail and skin care. Upon completing 1,000 hours of instruction, students of the Cosmetology program are eligible to sit for the State Board Licensing Examination for Cosmetologists. This course is also delivered in Spanish for English language learners.

HEALTH CAREER ACADEMY

CO-SER 107

CERTIFIED FIRST RESPONDER

This course is for students who intend to administer prehospital emergency care including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), oxygen, bleeding control and bandaging, assist in childbirth, and the treatment of trauma patients.

CERTIFIED NURSE ASSISTANT

This course emphasizes necessary foundation skills including legal and ethical responsibilities, health-related terminology, leadership development, safe handling of clients, first aid and preventing spread of infection. A supervised clinical experience is included. Students completing this one-year program are eligible to take the Certified Nurse Assistant exam.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN

This course is for students who intend to provide emergency medical care on the basic life support level in an ambulance, either as a volunteer or as a career. Topics include preparatory airway management, cardiac arrest and CPR, defibrillator, patient assessment, medical emergencies, trauma, infants and children, and ambulance operations. Upon completion, students must pass a state practical and written exam to achieve New York State EMT Basic certification.

INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH OCCUPATIONS

Students explore different health care professions to find a future career in the medical field. In this course, students will be given an opportunity to explore through hands-on activities, field trips and job shadowing.

INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICAL THERAPY/REHABILITATION

The Physical Therapy Aide program will prepare the student to work as part of a rehabilitative team in such settings as orthopedics, neurology, geriatrics, pediatrics, and home care. It is a profession that is in high demand. Coursework will include medical terminology, physical injuries, disorders and disease, rehab of injuries, patient and personnel communication, therapeutic exercise and activities of daily living, body mechanics, and empathy and compassion.

LAW ENFORCEMENT

Students will prepare for careers in law enforcement, security, legal systems and Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Topics of study include New York State penal and traffic laws, fingerprinting, vehicle searching, recording and photographing crime scenes, CPR, emergency first aid and courtroom procedures. Students will visit venues within the criminal justice system. Upon successful completion, students may acquire an unarmed security license.

MEDICAL ASSISTANT

Medical Assisting is a healthcare profession for those who want to work side-by-side with doctors in a medical office, clinic or hospital. Participating in a one- or two-year program, students learn patient care and administration and have the opportunity to intern in a variety of health care settings, ranging from doctor’s offices to radiology clinics. Those completing the second year may qualify to become Clinical Medical Assistants and obtain national certification. Specific college credits may be earned.

NEW VISIONS HEALTH

Highly motivated, successful high school seniors who are interested in a career in the health field can work side-by-side with doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other health care professionals while rotating through all departments of a hospital. Honors level English, social studies, health and health occupations credit is gained through projects completed during clinical assignments and internships. College credit may also be obtained.

SPORTS MEDICINE

Sports medicine is a two-year course that is designed to prepare students to learn about safety and injury prevention in sports, injury recognition and rehabilitation as well as fitness and athletic performance. The curriculum will encompass clinical anatomy, exercise physiology and nutritional science. Upon successful completion of the program students may attain a certificate as a Certified Personal Trainer.

VETERINARY SCIENCE

Are you thinking of becoming a veterinary assistant, veterinary technician, or veterinarian? Veterinary science will provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue their post-high-school goals in the veterinary science/animal science field. The two-year program starts in 11th grade. Students will gain this knowledge through reading, writing, research, teacher lectures, lab activities, guest speakers and internships.

HOSPITALITY CAREER ACADEMY

CO-SER 107

CULINARY ARTS

Students prepare for careers in the culinary arts/hospitality field by learning fundamental cooking and bakery/pastry arts skills. Training in safety, sanitation and basic nutrition is provided. Students use applied academic and technical skills to prepare portfolios for college admissions and employment. Frontof-the house hospitality training and culinary business concepts are included in the instruction. Students plan and operate a restaurant, cater functions, participate in an in-house work rotation and intern in the School-to-Work program following the National Restaurant Association ProStart curriculum.

TRANSPORTATION CAREER ACADEMY

CO-SER 107

AUTO BODY

Students learn the latest techniques of auto-collision repair, computerized estimating, body and frame technology, MIG welding and metalwork. Use of metal and plastic fillers, final preparation, masking, spray painting and detailing are taught as well. Proper use of hand tools and safety is fully integrated throughout the program.

AUTO MECHANICS I AND II

This program provides students with hands-on experiences in the field of automotive technology. Students explore the major components from steering, suspension and brake systems to onboard computer-controlled systems and diagnostics. The program prepares students for postsecondary education or employment.

ELECTRIC VEHICLE TECHNICIAN

Students learn an overview of electric and gas-electric hybrid vehicle fundamentals such as the operation, diagnosis, and repair of electric and hybrid vehicles. With the newest simulator technology, students will have hands-on instruction on topics including EV and HEV batteries, fuel cells, electric motor controllers, inverters, and auxiliary accessories.

SMALL ENGINE TECHNOLOGY (DIESEL)

This course of study includes the repair of recreational vehicles and small engines including snowmobiles, quads, lawn mowers, garden tractors, saws and leaf blowers. It also covers the principles of engine maintenance, repair and rebuilding for both two- and four- cycle engines; and repair of traction devices and other mechanical and electrical parts using hand tools, power tools and electronic test equipment. This course prepares students for entry into the following fields: outdoor power equipment repair, turf equipment repair, marine technology and heavy-duty equipment repair. Students learn about gasoline engine theory, maintenance and repair, then transition to larger basic diesel engines. Students will learn about diesel engine operation, maintenance and troubleshooting, heavy equipment suspension, drive train components and hydraulics.

ACADEMICS

CO-SER 107

Students meeting eligibility requirements may enroll for academic credit in the following subject areas: economics, English, government, health, math, physical education, art and social studies. Interested students should contact their school counselors for further information.

CORE PROGRAMS

Teachers use student interest in a particular career area to motivate change in behavior that interferes with the learning process and potential employment opportunities. These programs offer small group instruction, supervision, structure and support that students need to be successful. Classes include: Animal Care at Tilly Foster Farm, Barbering, Carpentry, Certified First Responder, Childcare Assistant, Culinary Arts, Culinary Arts at Tilly Foster Farm, Digital Media, Emergency Medical Technician, Graphic Design and Digital Photography, Game Design, Intro to Construction Trades, Masonry, Microcomputer Technology, Small Engine Repair, and Urban Forestry.

LIFE LEVEL PROGRAMS

Life programs are full one-year programs designed to prepare students with special needs for the world of work. Students participate in a variety of vocational experiences in preparation for independent or supported employment. The primary focus of this life program is the development of appropriate work behaviors, attitudes and skills to facilitate successful transition to adult employment. Students receive intensive skill development in one career and technical education program. Programs include: Animal Care, Animal Care at Tilly Foster Farm, Auto Body, Carpenter’s Assistant Trainee, Fashion Design Assistant, Food Preparation Assistant, Food Service Transition to Work, Intro to Construction Trades, Small Engine Repair, and the Culinary Arts Programs at Tilly Foster Farm.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

CAREER EXPLORATION

The Tech Center also offers career exploration programs for students in grades seven through 10. The students may receive CTE credits toward their required 1¾ CTE credits for middle school, job shadow, health credit, PE credit, art credit, and social studies credit.

CDOS COMMENCEMENT CREDENTIAL

Students can earn a NYS Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) Commencement Credential. This credential recognizes each student’s preparation and skills for post-school employment based on the CDOS Standards.

LEADERSHIP ORGANIZATIONS

Tech Center students may participatein SkillsUSA and apply for induction into the National Technical Honor Society. As NTHS alumni, students are honored and recognized for their achievements and are connected to many scholarship opportunities during their educational experience.

TECHNICAL ENDORSMENTS

Students enrolled in an approved school district or BOCES CTE program who successfully complete all requirements earn a technical endorsement to be affixed to their high school diploma.

PROGRAMS FOR 7-8TH AND 9-10TH GRADERS

Programs for 7th and 8th graders include Architecture, Carpentry, Electricity, HVAC, Intro to Construction Trades, Digital Media, Fashion Design, Game Design, Graphic Design and Digital Photography, Animal Care, Childcare Assistant, and Intro to Health Occupations.

Programs for 9-10TH Graders include Animal Care at Tilly Foster Farm, Architecture, Auto Body, Carpentry, Certified First Responder, Digital Media, Electricity, Fashion Design, Game Design, Graphic Design and Digital Photography, HVAC, Intro to Construction Trades, Masonry, Intro to Health Occupations, Small Engine, and Urban Forestry.

WORK-BASED LEARNING

Students work with Tech Center staff in designing a personalized work experience course of study. They research and identify a potential career choice and have the opportunity to participate in a creditbearing internship. Students in this program will be required to attend job-readiness seminars, maintain work-experience logs and complete written assignments.

ENGLISH AS A NEW LANGUAGE LEARNER (ENL) CAREER ACADEMY

CO-SER 107

ENL IMMERSION

The English as a New Language Learner Program is designed for students who have recently arrived from a non-English speaking country. Students participate in a variety of cultural and academic endeavors that are designed to teach basic communication skills. More advanced students are prepared for the high school equivalency exam (GED).

SPANISH GED

Designed for 16- to 20-year-old students, this option provides alternatives to the regular high school program by offering instruction in Spanish to prepare for a GED diploma.

SPANISH PRE-GED

Spanish Pre-GED is a new course offering for high school students to work on their academics to improve their test scores for entrance to the GED program. Instruction is in Spanish.

ADULT EDUCATION COORDINATOR

CO-SER 104

Component districts may contract for services for a part-time coordinator for district-based adult education classes.

BILINGUAL TRADES

Spanish translation for key terminology is provided within each of the ENL Career and Technical Education programs. Programs include Architecture/Engineering, ENL Auto Body, ENL Auto Mechanics, ENL Carpentry, ENL HVAC, ENL Pre-Medical Assistant, ENL Pre-Nurse Aide, ENL Small Engine Repair, ENL Urban Forestry, Spanish Business & Computer Tech, and Spanish Cosmetology.

GED (GENERAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT)

This program provides high school equivalency education for 16- to 20-year-old students who are having difficulty making satisfactory progress toward high school graduation in their local high schools. Instruction includes examination preparation classes two hours a day, five days a week, during the academic school year. Students are also required to participate in a CTE vocational program. Written approval from the home school and parents as well as an entrance examination are required. Alternative Options is also available to students with limited English proficiency.

COLLEGE AND CAREER FAIR

CO-SER 523

High school sophomores and juniors and their families meet with college representatives from across the nation to explore postsecondary options. High school 10th and 11th graders also attend the fair to meet with college, business and industry representatives to learn about a wide variety of careers.

ADULT AND CONTINUING EDUCATION SPECIAL FUNDING PROGRAM

This program serves the workforce preparation needs of more than 2,000 adults each year through continuing education, technical and career education, literacy training and training for business and industry. The Tech Center Adult Ed program participates in a partnership with the New York State Department of Education and Department of Labor by providing programs in which adults receive education, training and support services enabling them to enter or advance in the workplace. The continuing education program provides short-term career-related courses in many areas such as construction, health, culinary arts and computer technology.

• The computer department offers more than 50 courses, taught by professionals in state-of-the-art networked computer laboratories.

• In the technical and career education program, classes lead to entry-level employment in fields such as health care; computer applications for business; computer technology; food service; cosmetology; and heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

• Students receive support services including career counseling, job development and job placement. These programs also serve unemployed, underemployed and dislocated workers. In the literacy program, students receive training in essential skills in workplace competencies such as communication, problem solving and team building.

• Free instruction is available in Adult Basic Education, GED and English for Speakers of Other Languages at 13 locations in Putnam and Northern Westchester counties.

• The business and industry program provides customized training at the request of a business or corporation. Some recent training programs include computer applications, accounting and health services.

PROFILES IN SUCCESS: Justin Carlson, Ossining High School

PNW BOCES Law Enforcement alum Justin Carlson realized his lifelong dream when he was sworn into the Ossining Police Department in January 2022.

And it’s everything he hoped it would be. “I love my job. I get to help people every day and make a difference in my community.”

The 2015 Ossining High School graduate said that the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program at BOCES helped prepare him for the rigorous demands of the field and confirmed his belief that this was the right profession for him.

“Being a police officer was something I wanted to do ever since I can remember, so the BOCES program was perfect for me,” he says.

“Tom Houlahan was one of the best teachers I have ever had,” Carlson says of his Law Enforcement teacher, noting that he particularly valued the practical approach of the Law Enforcement program.

“I loved the class and how from day one we started doing hands-on work,” he said. “It was really helpful to learn so much about the field while still in high school.”

After he graduated from Ossining High School and PNW BOCES he studied law enforcement at Westchester Community College before applying to the police academy. “I love being in the academy now. It has been an amazing experience so far.” An added bonus, he notes, is that he feels he’s found a new family. “The support the officers have for each other is amazing.”

Law Enforcement students learn about the functions of the criminal justice system, including the responsibilities of the police, the court system, and corrections. They learn police tactics and practical skills such as handcuffing techniques, fingerprinting and baton training.

Houlahan is proud of his former student’s accomplishments. “Justin was always a resilient, hardworking student,” he said. “I’m not surprised that he has fulfilled his dream of becoming a police officer. His oversized heart and determination will be obvious to the residents of Ossining as Justin fulfills his dream to protect and serve.”

PROFILES IN SUCCESS: Peter Hsi, Brewster High School

There’s no doubt in Peter Hsi’s mind: the architecture class he took at PNW BOCES set him up for success in college.

Hsi attended The Career & Technical Education Center his junior and senior years at Brewster High School, studying Architecture and Design for two hours a day before returning to Brewster for his other classes.

“I knew I wanted to do something with buildings, but I wasn’t sure what,” he recalls. “When I heard about the BOCES architecture program I thought I’d give it a try and ended up really liking it.”

In fact, he liked the program so much he went on to further his studies at the Pratt Institute, a college known for its architecture program.

“I think my CTE experience helped me get into Pratt,” Hsi says. “I was able to ‘talk the talk’ in the interview. And schools like Pratt place a lot of emphasis on portfolios, and I was able to develop a strong portfolio in my Tech Center architecture class.”

The advantage didn’t stop there. Once in school, Hsi found that his familiarity with the architecture design software programs, like AutoCAD, Revit, and 3Ds Max, helped him easily transition to the college software, Rhino, used by professionals. “Most of the other students were starting from scratch,” he explains.

Hsi graduated from Pratt in 2018, joining the architecture firm Thomas A. Fenniman, which specializes in historical restoration projects. He soon embarked on the long journey to obtain his New York State architecture license, which requires three years’ experience in the state and six exams.

He got his license in the spring of 2022, which he explains is a relatively short time. “I couldn’t go out because of Covid and really focused on studying for my license,” he says.

Explaining that a career in architecture is “pretty strenuous,” Hsi advises high school students considering such a future to take a look at the BOCES program. “It’s a great way to see what it’s like and to get in touch with architecture.”

Hsi appreciated meeting students from different schools while at BOCES. As for his life back in high school, the Brewster 2013 graduate recalls the daily transition between BOCES and high school to be “pretty seamless. I participated on the track team and still felt very connected to Brewster High School,” he says.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

The Special Education Department at Putnam|Northern Westchester BOCES provides high-quality special education programs and services for students with a wide array of social, emotional, learning and medical needs. Our programs are located at our Pines Bridge, Walden and Fox Meadow schools on our two main campuses in Yorktown Heights and in local school buildings in the Lakeland and Somers school districts. All of our special education programs focus on providing Pathways to Success for every student with an emphasis on enhancing students' communication, independence, selfadvocacy and skills for success into adulthood. Every program is designed to meet a child’s individualized needs in a nurturing and supportive environment.

(914)248-2350

(914)248-2252

(914)248-3643

Pathways to Success for Every Student

THE WALDEN SCHOOL

KATHRYN WHITE, PRINCIPAL KWHITE@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2272

Located on the PNW BOCES main campus in Yorktown, Walden students attend one of four programs.

COLLABORATIVE LANGUAGE ACADEMIC AND SOCIAL SKILLS (CLASS)

CO-SER 204

CLASS is a program for students with significant communication delays including autism spectrum disorder and other pervasive developmental disorders. Our CLASS program at Walden offers intensive individualized instruction and related services to students ages 5 through 15 in an 8:1:1 setting. Each class is staffed by a collaborating half-time speech/ language therapist in addition to the certified special education classroom teacher and teaching assistant or teacher’s aide. Students in our CLASS program have the opportunity to move into our CLASS Transitions program at Walden at 16 years of age.

INTENSIVE THERAPEUTIC SUPPORT PROGRAM (ITSP) ELEMENTARY

CO-SER 402

MEG BUCKLAND, DEAN OF STUDENTS

MBUCKLAND@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-3840

Our Elementary ITSP program provides temporary, intensive therapeutic support for students in grades K-6 who are experiencing acute crisis and are not able to attend their typical school setting or are transitioning in or out of a psychiatric setting. The focus of the program is on emotional re-regulation, goal setting and preparing the student for return to their previous or new educational program. ITSP is not a special education service provider but does serve students with special needs as well as general education students. Work is provided by and returned to the program of origin to maintain continuity of instruction and ease the student’s return to program. Elementary students attend the ITSP program in the Walden School on our main campus.

THE LEARNING CENTER AT WALDEN

CO-SER 243

The Learning Center program offers instruction in academics and positive behaviors as well as related services for students with social, emotional and behavioral difficulties. This program is available to students in grades K-8 in an 8:1:1 setting with counseling support provided according to the student's IEP and/or individual need. Social skills development, including skills specific to emotional and behavioral regulation, are integral and woven into the daily program. Additional related services can be provided per each student's IEP.

COLLABORATIVE LANGUAGE ACADEMIC AND SOCIAL SKILLS (CLASS) TRANSITIONS AT WALDEN

CO-SER 204

ELENI PARISI

EPARISI@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2250

Transitions at Walden is an 8:1:1 program designed for students ages 16 through 21 who struggle with significant communication delays including autism spectrum disorder. This program provides experiences that will best prepare young adults for the transition from school into the adult world. The program emphasizes skills in the following strands: community experiences, job training/volunteer work, life skills and activities of daily living. Students also participate in the Practical Assessment Exploration System (PAES) vocational assessment lab in our vocational center housed on the main PNW BOCES campus.

THE PINES BRIDGE SCHOOL

ELENI PARISI, EPARISI@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2821

Located on the PNW BOCES main campus in Yorktown, the Pines Bridge School provides a variety of learning environments for students ages 5 to 21 with multiple disabilities.

THE PINES BRIDGE PROGRAM

CO-SER 215

The Pines Bridge Program serves students ages 5 to 15 with multiple disabilities often with medical needs. Classes have an intensive 12:1:4 staff to student ratio (student: teacher: teaching assistant or aide) that allows for a wide variety of learning environments including specialized programs emphasizing communication, independence and mobility. Pines Bridge is the only public school in New York State to offer many of its students aquatic therapy in two state-of-the-art HydroWorx therapy pools.

TRANSITIONS AT PINES BRIDGE

CO-SER 215

Transitions at Pines Bridge is a 12:1:4 program designed for secondary students ages 16 to 21 with multiple disabilities, medical needs and/or developmental delays. This program provides experiences that will best prepare young adults for the transition from school into the adult world. The program emphasizes skills in the following strands: community experiences, job training/volunteer work, life skills and activities of daily living. Students also participate in the Practical Assessment Exploration System (PAES) vocational assessment lab in our vocational center housed on the main PNW BOCES campus.

PINES BRIDGE AT SUNSHINE

CO-SER 216

Pines Bridge at Sunshine is a satellite school for students ages 5 to 21 with multiple disabilities who are too medically fragile to travel to the Pines Bridge School on the PNW BOCES campus. Sunshine students are provided with a specialized program in a nursing home setting at the Sunshine Children’s Home and Rehab Center in Ossining. Related services are also provided per each student’s IEP.

FOX MEADOW HIGH SCHOOL

THE LEARNING CENTER AT FOX MEADOW

CO-SER 212

Fox Meadow High School is an academically and emotionally supportive program that serves students in grades 9-12 who struggle with social, emotional and/or behavioral difficulties. The program follows a Regents curriculum and offers dually certified teachers, small class sizes (8:1:1 student to staff ratio), positive behavior supports, peer mediation, conflict resolution, social skills curriculum and access to mental health services. Students are assigned a lead teacher and clinician (psychologist, social worker or school counselor) who monitor and support their progress. Social/emotional skill development, behavioral regulation strategies, college/career readiness skills, selfadvocacy skills and transition planning are integrated into the program. Related services, including Speech/Language Therapy; Occupational Therapy; Physical Therapy; and Counseling and Reading services are available based on individual need and/or according to the student's IEP. Fox Meadow students additionally have the opportunity to participate in career and vocational education both on the Fox Meadow campus and at the Career and Technical Education Center on the PNW BOCES main campus.

INTENSIVE THERAPEUTIC SUPPORT PROGRAM (ITSP) SECONDARY

CO-SER 402

MEG BUCKLAND, DEAN OF STUDENTS

MBUCKLAND@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-3840

Our Secondary ITSP program provides temporary, intensive therapeutic support for students in grades 7-12 who are experiencing acute crisis, are not able to attend their home school or who are transitioning in or out of a psychiatric setting. The focus of the program is on emotional re-regulation, goal setting and preparing to return to the student's previous or new educational setting. Secondary students attend the ITSP program on the Fox Meadow campus.

BACK ON TRACK

CO-SER 402

Back on Track is an on-site tutoring service on the Fox Meadow campus for students in grades 7-12 who have been suspended from school for either a long or short term. Students may attend and receive instructional support from dually certified teachers to complete work provided and graded by their home district. A student assistance counselor is on staff to provide students with counseling, behavioral and goal-setting supports. Back on Track is not a special education service provider.

LOCAL SCHOOL BUILDING PROGRAMS

Several BOCES programs are housed in school districts throughout the region. Local School Building (LSB) programs are designed for students who require a small, structured setting, but are able to participate in a general education environment with support for selected activities and/or academic classes.

COLLABORATIVE LANGUAGE ACADEMIC AND SOCIAL SKILLS (CLASS) AT LSB

CO-SER 218

The CLASS programs in local school buildings are located in the Somers School District. CLASS is a program for students with significant communication delays including autism spectrum disorder and other pervasive developmental disorders. Our CLASS LSB program offers intensive individualized instruction and related services to students ages 5 through 21 in a 12:1:1 setting (student: teacher: teaching assistant or aide). Each class is staffed by a collaborating half-time speech/language therapist in addition to the certified special education classroom teacher and teaching assistant or teacher’s aide. At age 18 students have the option of transferring to the Transitions program on our main campus to take advantage of additional work-based opportunities.

LEARNING CENTER AT LSB

CO-SER 222

Learning Center programs in local school buildings are located in the Lakeland and Somers school districts. The Learning Center program offers instruction in academics and positive behaviors as well as related services for students with social, emotional and behavioral difficulties. These programs are available to students in grades K-8 in a 12:1:1 (student: teacher: teaching assistant or aide) setting with counseling support provided for all students. Social skills development, including skills specific to emotional and behavioral regulation, are integral and woven into the daily program. Additional related services can be provided per each student's IEP.

THE OASIS MIDDLE SCHOOL

CO-SER 211

The OASIS Middle School is a collaborative program with the Lakeland Central School District. It utilizes a unique, "school within a school" model and serves students with special needs in grades 6-8 at the Copper Beech Middle School in Lakeland, NY.

Students attending the Oasis Middle School are academically proficient but may struggle with social, emotional or psychological issues including anxiety, school avoidance, phobias or depression, that have prevented them from previous success in their school program.

The Oasis MS provides a therapeutic learning environment with a rigorous but supported curriculum to ensure both academic and social/emotional success.

All students in the program receive counseling services per their IEP, and social/emotional skills instruction is infused into the curriculum using a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) model. The program also utilizes a Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS) framework with family partnership highly encouraged.

Students in the Oasis MS also have access to general education classes and opportunities as appropriate.

OASIS AT WALTER PANAS HIGH SCHOOL

CO-SER

The OASIS High School is a collaborative program with the Lakeland Central School District. It supports special education students in grades 9-12 who are academically proficient but struggle to be successful due to delays in acquiring the social, emotional and coping skills necessary to fully participate in a mainstream high school program. This program offers a supported Regents curriculum in conjunction with therapeutic social and emotional support. In addition, a skills curriculum is provided to develop organizational and study skills. All students in the program receive weekly counseling services, and social skills instruction is infused into the curriculum using a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) model. Students in this program also have the opportunity to participate in our Tech Center vocational programs.

RELATED AND SHARED SUPPORT SERVICES

VISUALLY IMPAIRED

CO-SER 301

The teacher of the visually impaired provides special instruction, accommodation, modification, consultation, and/or support for students with a diagnosed visual acuity impairment who are enrolled in a regular school program or a BOCES program.

HEARING IMPAIRED

CO-SER 302

The teacher of the hearing impaired provides special instruction, accommodation, modification, consultation, and/or support for students with a diagnosed hearing impairment who are enrolled in a regular school program or a BOCES program.

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY

CO-SER 307

Speech and Language Therapy is designed to assist students in special education programs who require speech and language intervention in order to benefit from their educational program. These services are provided by a certified speech and language therapist and are available to students in our BOCES programs per IEP recommendation.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

CO-SER 312

Physical therapy services are provided to ensure that special education students can safely participate in, and benefit from, the appropriate educational program by enhancing their gross motor strength, coordination and/or balance. These services are provided by a licensed physical therapist.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

CO-SER 313

Occupational therapy services are provided to ensure that special education students can benefit from their educational program by enhancing their visual perception, sensory processing, fine motor skills, and/or activities of daily living. These services are provided by a licensed occupational therapist.

INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP COUNSELING

CO-SER 314

Individual or group counseling services are provided by school psychologists, school counselors and/or school social workers to help students to more fully benefit from their educational program by supporting their social and emotional development.

REMEDIAL READING

CO-SER 315

Reading/literacy specialists work intensively with identified students to provide specific strategies to identify their individual needs and enhance their reading/language arts skills.

AQUA THERAPY AND POOLS

The Pines Bridge School and the Walden School are the only public schools in New York State to offer many of their students aqua therapy in two, state-of-the-art HyrdroWorx therapy pools. The pools, which are also used by leading children’s hospitals and rehabilitation centers, have built-in, underwater treadmills, hydro massage and underwater video monitoring. The entire floor of the pool can be raised to the height of the surrounding floor, enabling easy access for children with disabilities. The child is simply moved onto the floor of the pool and gently lowered into the water. With video monitoring, physical and occupational therapists can record a student’s therapy session and keep a detailed record of the student’s progress.

THERAPEUTIC CANINE PROGRAM

Disney is Walden’s favorite staff member and is a wonderful asset to the Walden School. From greeting students as they enter the building, to supporting students in their individual therapy sessions, classroom visits and assisting with emotional support and regulation Disney benefits the students at Walden with her presence. Students advocate for themselves by requesting time with Disney when they are feeling unsettled and need a break. The students are also practicing daily living skills with Disney by brushing her teeth, cleaning her ears and brushing her fur. Knowing Disney has daily personal hygiene needs helps the students with their daily hygiene needs as they wash their hands before and after being with Disney. The students work on functional communication, body awareness, emotional regulation, functional movement and pace, coordination skills, balance and safety skills while with Disney. The students are eager to work with Disney and are highly motivated to be with her.

PAES LAB

The PAES (Practical Assessment Exploration Systems Lab) allows students to explore different vocational activities using a hands-on curriculum in a simulated work environment to assess their vocational skills, needs and interests. In the lab, students become employees and staff become supervisors while students engage in differing tasks of successive complexity and length. Students are encouraged to work independently and mature their problem-solving skills. The lab is used to assess a student's competitive work potential and interest level, while simultaneously exploring various jobs, using real tools, and developing proper work behaviors in the following five areas: Consumer/Service, Business/Marketing, Processing/Production, Construction/Industrial, Computer/Technology. Data is collected on students’ interests, independence, enjoyment and skill development while working in the lab and is used to inform and develop matching work sites and vocational experiences.

PROFILES IN SUCCESS: Mark Anthony Velesaca, Peekskill

Mark Anthony Velesaca walks down the halls of the Walden School with the air of someone who feels at home. The 15-year-old from Peekskill waves warmly to students and staff, introduces a visitor to a teacher and heads off with confidence to his Life Skills class, where he practices folding laundry, making beds and sorting clothes.

It’s a far cry from the withdrawn child who arrived at Walden as a five-year-old. Now a participant in Walden’s CLASS program (Collaborative, Language, Academic, and Social Skills) Mark, by all accounts, has made tremendous strides.

Speaking through a translator, Mark’s mother, Maria Carmelina Quinde Luquilina, says she is amazed at his progress. “The doctor told me when Mark was born that he would need a lot of help and may never walk or talk, and now he is doing all of this! I saw improvement since the first year that he started at Walden.”

Mark had a one-to-one aide at Walden until last year and continues to make tangible progress. While he understands English and Spanish, he can be hard to understand, so he communicates best through his iPad, which he received three years ago. “He began with a very simple vocabulary of basic wants and needs on the device and has now progressed to a much more complex system that enables him to express so much more,” explains his speech and language teacher Meaghan C. Capellini.

Melanie Burch, who has taught Mark for the past four years, notes his tremendous growth. “At BOCES we follow the Pathways to Success model (independence, communication, self-advocacy and skills for individual success),” she says. “Mark has shown improvements in all these categories and engages well. He enjoys helping students and staff and is kind and caring towards others. He is curious and loves to participate in class lessons and go up to the SMART Board.”

Through his device, Mark says he loves coming to school and likes any activity where he can use his hands. He particularly likes “cooking, science experiments, classroom crafts, games, and PE,” he says. He enjoys being outdoors, and shows interest in landscaping, digging and building.

Mark says he has made a lot of friends at Walden, and Burch says he does a great job at introducing himself verbally and shaking another person's hand. “Mark is social and very funny!”

“He’s our social butterfly,” says Teaching Assistant Noreen McNamara, who has also worked with him for four years. She says that Mark recently showed tremendous strides in self-advocacy when he asked to participate in the Walden Talent Show with a DJ music act. “He had everyone on their feet,” says McNamara, who keeps a video of his act on her phone. “It was wonderful.”

CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP

The Center for Educational Leadership (CEL) develops innovative programs and services designed to enhance the skills of school leaders at all levels, support those new to their roles, and provide pathways for future leaders. CEL works in collaboration with leaders from the region to set a level of programming that is current and relevant to the needs expressed by our districts.

lallen@pnwboces.org

(914) 248-2310

TASHA

COORDINATOR OF SCHOOL LEADERSHIP twright@pnwboces.org

(914) 248-3829

Pathways to Success for Every Student

CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP

TASHA WRIGHT, TWRIGHT@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-3829

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR LEADERS

CO-SER 512

The Center for Educational Leadership (CEL) provides school leaders at all levels with a comprehensive array of learning opportunities to give them the knowledge, perspective, skills and experiences needed to meet the challenges of public education today. CEL provides leadership institutes, seminars, professional development activities, executive coaching, training programs and services that are economical and flexible, utilizing national consultants as well as successful practitioners. All offerings are anchored in the current realities of school leadership.

COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMS

CO-SER 512

CEL provides professional development and master’s, doctoral and in-service programs for current and aspiring public school leaders. In order to provide the highest quality training opportunities, CEL is continuing successful collaborations and partnerships with Bank Street College of Education (Future School Leaders Academy – CO-SER 501); Clarkson University, Cornell University (Managing Organizational Conflict Certificate Series); Harvard University (Certificate in School Management and Leadership); Manhattanville College (Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership and Executive Ed.D. programs); Pace University (School District Business Leader); Teachers College, Columbia University (Education Policy Leadership Program); and Yale University (Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence).

BANK STREET FUTURE SCHOOL LEADERS ACADEMY

CO-SER 501

The Future School Leaders Academy (FSLA) prepares and certifies candidates for service as school and district leaders through a collaborative and hands-on approach to leadership preparation. To receive the Advanced Master's degree, participants must complete the equivalent of 30 units of academic credit and an approved internship. This is accomplished in five semesters with a July semester between the two school years. Upon completion, candidates receive New York State certificates as School District Leader and School Building Leader. FSLA is sponsored jointly by Bank Street College of Education, Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES and participating school districts. Candidates are enrolled by superintendent’s recommendation only.

MANHATTANVILLE DOCTORAL PROGRAM IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP

CO-SER 512

The Manhattanville Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership, offered in partnership with Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES, offers three pathways aimed at educational professionals with experience in major educational initiatives. The program is designed for practicing and prospective leaders, and experienced educators in P-20 education, serving schools, districts, colleges, universities, community organizations and entrepreneurial endeavors. The signature pedagogy of problem-based learning is integrated throughout the coursework, field experiences and applied research. Since 2010, Manhattanville's doctoral programs have focused on developing leaders who have vision, clarity, and self-confidence in leading groups and organizations, participating in professional and policy-making communities, and facilitating responsive educational environments.

PACE SCHOOL DISTRICT BUSINESS LEADER CERTIFICATION PROGRAM (ONLINE)

CO-SER 512

Conducted in conjunction with Pace University, the School District Business Leader program prepares flexible, visionary and reflective school business leaders with the skills necessary to create and sustain financial and operational functions within a school district. Instruction is offered online, and participants work with a cohort of peers within a professional network. Upon completion, New York State certification as a School District Business Leader is received. Career possibilities include assistant superintendent, business official or treasurer. The program is a pathway to either School District Business Leadership (36 credits) or a master's in School District Business Leadership/Public Administration (60 Credits). A Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (24 credits) is available for those holding SBL/SDL certification.

FORDHAM UNIVERSITY

EDUCATIONAL POLICY LEADERSHIP PROGRAM (EPLP)

CO-SER 512

The Educational Policy Leadership Program (EPLP) is sponsored by the Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL) in Washington, D.C., in conjunction with Fordham University; and Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES. EPLP is a professional development experience focused on leadership development and educational policy implementation. The group meets for eight sessions over a 10-month period with an opportunity for participation in national conferences.

The 9,000 EPLP alumni work in a variety of senior leadership positions in public education (including state commissioners of education and school superintendents), government (including members of Congress) and nonprofit and private sector organizations, where they make important contributions to public policy.

HR AUDIT

CO-SER 603

Districts experiencing changes in the Human Resources Office may want to consider selecting an HR audit for a review of current processes and practices. This in-district audit will provide recommendations regarding alignment between district procedures and human resources best practices. Partial or complete audits can be conducted based on district needs.

INDEPENDENT EVALUATORS

CO-SER 512

Upon district request, pursuant to Education Law §§3012-d(4)(b)(2), an impartial, independent, trained evaluator or evaluators can be provided to support teacher observations and principal school visits.

SCHOOL METER

CO-SER 603

School Meter is a powerful web-based communication and analysis tool designed for district leaders. It helps superintendents and assistant superintendents make the most of state assessment data for the benefit of both students and district stakeholders. School Meter features comparative views of Regents and grades three through eight performance, employing subgroup data to highlight how a district is meeting the needs of all of its students.

STAFF DEVELOPMENT FOR SCHOOL BUSINESS AND SUPPORT STAFF

CO-SER 614

The work of every office professional requires a unique composition of skills and talents. CEL offers a variety of programs geared toward enhancing those skills and talents while supporting the professional development of business office employees, district clerks and support staff. In addition to programs held at Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES throughout the year, districts may schedule on-site programs of their choice

STRATEGIC COHERENCE PLANNING

CO-SER 512

This on-site service focuses on adaptive change as the lever for a strategic coherence planning process. Moving from an overview of systems thinking and barriers to learning processes for building mission, vision and beliefs, the program concludes by reviewing data collection and goal setting processes as well as creating a plan for change.

SUPEREVAL

CO-SER 603

SuperEval is an online evaluation system for school superintendents based on a rubric developed by the New York State Council of School Superintendents (NYSCOSS). The SuperEval platform subscription provides access to the SuperEval tool for the superintendent and all of a district’s Board of Education members. Access to evaluation tools for school principals, assistant principals and central office administrators as well as a variety of training options are also available.

THOUGHTEXCHANGE

CO-SER 603

Thoughtexchange is a community alignment software platform that enables school leaders to crowdsource what is most important to their community (either internal or external) on any given topic while also building a sense of ownership among those who are engaged.

CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTIONAL SERVICES

The Curriculum and Instructional Services (CIS) department partners with educators, schools and districts to help address their needs as they pertain to curriculum, instruction and assessment initiatives.

With a dedicated staff committed to evolving the learning process for all learners in all content areas, CIS provides exceptional professional learning, innovative curriculum services and exemplary student programs for the Putnam|Northern Westchester region and beyond.

248-2333

shirsh@pnwboces.org (914) 248-2382

Pathways to Success for Every Student

CURRICULUM CENTER

CO-SER 504

FRED ENDE, FENDE@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2333

SAMANTHA HIRSH, SHIRSH@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2382

The Curriculum Center works closely with districts to provide quality curriculum design, staff development, strategic planning and support for school improvement. It also acts as a clearinghouse to communicate information about district and regional curriculum and instruction initiatives, promotes sharing and networking among Curriculum Council members, and coordinates partnerships with districts, other BOCES, universities and leading service providers. In addition, the center assists districts in obtaining information about current issues and new practices in curriculum and instruction and in their exploration of new programs. The center also acts as a liaison with the State Education Department to provide districts with the latest information regarding curriculum, instruction, assessment and other initiatives. Programs offered support quality instruction through in-person and virtual workshops, collegial circles, clinics, leadership institutes and curriculum development projects. Programs are developed in response to the needs identified by Curriculum Center districts.

IN-DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

CO-SER 504

SAMANTHA HIRSH, SHIRSH@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2382

Curriculum Center consultants work with individual schools and districts to provide on-site staff development. Consultation areas include curriculum development, standards alignment, APPR implementation, school-based inquiry, leadership support, social and emotional learning, content area support, pedagogical practices for in-person and virtual learning and literacy. The service includes keynote addresses for conferences and workshops with teachers and administrators in half-day, full-day, afterschool and multiday formats.

LITERACY PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

CO-SER 504

DANIELLE COLANGELO, DCOLANGELO@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2343

Literacy is an essential part of learning for all students, and a comprehensive set of regional and in-district services are available to support districts. These offerings support all readers and writers and address the five pillars of literacy: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension. This is facilitated through partnerships with literacy leaders including Wilson Language Training, The Rose Institute at Manhattanville College, Generation Ready, and Lexia Learning. The Curriculum Center Literacy Service will continue to lead schools in supporting students to become inspired readers and writers.

INTEGRATED SOCIAL STUDIES/ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM

CO-SER 504

GREG FREDRICKS, GFREDRICKS@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2359

SS/ELA is an innovative, web-based, integrated elementary social studies and English Language Arts curriculum development project. The content of the grades K-8 curriculum is based on the Framework for Social Studies and Next Generation ELA standards and uses an Understanding by Design (UbD) template that includes targeted understandings,

essential questions, evidence, knowledge and skills needed, as well as teaching and learning experiences. The curriculum supports a balanced literacy classroom and includes technology, literature, writing, student assessments and video streaming. Staff development workshops also play a part in program support.

HUDSON RIVER TEACHER CENTER (HRTC)

CO-SER 512

DANIELLE COLANGELO, DCOLANGELO@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2343

The Hudson River Teacher Center is led by a policy board of teachers and administrators from member districts, which include Briarcliff Manor, Croton-Harmon, Hendrick Hudson, Lakeland, North Salem, Peekskill, and PNW BOCES. The Teacher Center provides a comprehensive set of services for all educators and support staff. Professional learning opportunities designed to support districts are offered through a variety of formats, including online courses, virtual and in-person workshops, book studies, and on-site trainings.

REGIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

C0-SER 608

DANIELLE COLANGELO, DCOLANGELO@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2343

The internship program is a regionally based model, which deepens the preparation of pre-service teachers while providing additional coverage for public school districts. This mutually beneficial program is based upon reciprocal needs: the need for better training for preservice teachers in preparing them for the complexities of teaching as well as the need of local school districts to find qualified teachers.

SCIENCE 21 INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

CO-SER 522

DAVID JACOB, DJACOB@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2336

HARRY ROSVALLY, HROSVALLY@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2246

Hands-on science kits that support the SCIENCE 21 curriculum, assessment and professional learning program.

SCIENCE 21 CURRICULUM AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

CO-SER 542

DAVID JACOB, DJACOB@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2336

HARRY ROSVALLY, HROSVALLY@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2246

SCIENCE 21 is an inquiry-based K-5 elementary science service that provides curriculum and assessment development along with relevant and diversified professional learning in national and state science standards, concepts and skills. SCIENCE 21 aligns to science standards and integrates curriculum with other subjects. In addition to regional SCIENCE 21 workshops, on-site consultation can be provided to assist districts with local implementation and related instructional strategies in science.

STUDENT PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

EXECUTIVE COACHING

CO-SER 504

FRED ENDE, FENDE@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2333

Executive Coaching utilizes exemplary educational leaders trained in the coaching process to work with school administrators seeking growth in their professional lives.

MANDARIN LANGUAGE

CO-SER 352

DR. LYNN ALLEN, LALLEN@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2310

The enrichment program provides elementary students with exposure to Mandarin language and culture through music, movement and art. BOCES provides on-site Mandarin Language Teaching Assistants to school districts interested in offering this option to their students

CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION (CEE)

CO-SER 406

DANIEL NOVAK, DNOVAK@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2335

The Center for Environmental Education (CEE) provides environmental education outreach and team-building services virtually, in-person at schools and directly on our Yorktown BOCES campus. It also facilitates access to a broad range of environmental education consultant services with partner organizations.

CEE programs address the New York State Science Learning Standards, New York State social and emotional learning benchmarks and sustainability concepts standards. CEE connects students to nature, each other, and the world around them. Unique offerings include sustainability programming, Native American studies, colonial living skills and the Earth Portable Classroom.

CEE is a leader in team-building. Whether on CEE’s Challenge Course or at a school, the center’s work focuses on increasing group effectiveness through improved interconnectedness and individual development. CEE offers professional development for those interested in improving team dynamics in their classrooms and districts and leadership team support for retreats and district initiatives. CEE also offers consultation services on how to better utilize the outdoors as an effective educational space and infuse environmental education into everyone’s daily lives.

EXPLORATORY ENRICHMENT

CO-SER 410

STACY CHRYSSIKOS, SCHRYSSIKOS@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2349

The Exploratory Enrichment service supports districts in providing standards-based programming in a variety of disciplines to students in order to extend and enhance the classroom experience. These include math, science, social studies, ELA, health, and physical education.

ARTS IN EDUCATION

CO-SER 477

STACY CHRYSSIKOS, SCHRYSSIKOS@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2349

This is a comprehensive support service to assist in the planning, scheduling, booking and evaluating of a full range of arts-related consultant services, including in-school, virtual and off-site workshops, performances, residencies and arts-related field trips. Staff development in the arts is also part of the service.

AUGUST REGENTS ADMINISTRATION

CO-SER 504

FRED ENDE, FENDE@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2333

This service provides regional coordination for August Regents administration.

ONLINE COURSES FOR THE 21ST CENTURY (OC 21)

CO-SER 504

GREG FREDRICKS, GFREDRICKS@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2359

This cutting-edge project provides blended online elective high school courses aligned to the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) standards and 21st century skills. Participating students engage with peers across the region in a dynamic learning experience taught by outstanding teachers from the consortium.

YOUNG AUTHORS PROGRAM

CO-SER 506

DANIELLE COLANGELO, DCOLANGELO@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2343

A full-day conference for high school students who demonstrate interest and achievement in writing, the Young Authors Conference features a number of speakers and a series of workshops led by authors, journalists, poets, playwrights, publishers and editors. A special Young Authors Master Class is also available for select participants, where students are given the opportunity to share their writing and receive feedback from professional editors. In addition, a Young Authors Middle Level program allows middle school student writers an opportunity to come together and learn from each other and regional educators.

LIBRARY SERVICES

LIBRARY RESOURCES PROFESSIONAL LIBRARY SERVICE

CO-SER 516

The Professional Library and Information Service provides faculty and administration of participating districts with a plethora of services. Teachers and administrators receive personalized research and reference services provided by BOCES staff. The Professional Library maintains a collection of resources to support professional development, curriculum, and instruction: books, e-books, periodicals, DVDs, subscription databases and other online resources. Many resources can be accessed online and those that cannot may be reserved by phone or email.

SUBSCRIPTION DATABASES AND E-BOOKS

CO-SER 516

This service provides online database subscriptions, e-books and library resources that keep school libraries open around the clock. A variety of subscription resources is available for all grade levels and curriculum areas, including a subscription to a shared OverDrive collection. A unique proxy database portal page for each school is also included. Consortium discounts help to save districts funding on these products.

LIBRARY MEDIA AND RESOURCE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

CO-SER 516

The School Library System offers workshops and conferences on best practices, learning standards, technology, research, and resources for administrators, teachers, and library media specialists at a reduced rate. Individual and group consultation, and outreach site visits providing personalized support are also available.

VIDEO STREAMING/VIDEO ON DEMAND

CO-SER 516

Teachers can download or stream content- specific segments from fulllength videos that support classroom content. Class management and assignment features allow teachers to select content for students to view and monitor their progress.

LIBRARY AUTOMATION

CO-SER 520

Computerized library management systems allow students and faculty to effectively use the resources of the school library media center. Library automation includes data conversion of shelf list cards into electronic bibliographic records and the development of an online catalog and circulation system, which patrons can access both on-site and remotely around the clock. On-site training provides improved technical services and maintenance of the library collections.

As Director of Instruction and Human Resources in the North Salem School District, Julio Vazquez certainly has several key responsibilities under his charge, which is one reason he is grateful for the many supports provided by, and through, Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES.

In terms of instruction, North Salem takes advantage of BOCES’ Science 21 program for the elementary school, and ELA and social studies are supported through the BOCES Curriculum and Instruction Department. Additionally, several teachers take advantage of collegial circle offerings, he says.

Working closely with Greg Fredricks, BOCES Regional Coordinator for Social Studies and Blended Learning, Vazquez involved North Salem in piloting the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness. The program brings social studies alive by connecting students with social studies as a lived experience. The Seal of Civic Readiness is awarded to seniors who complete a community-oriented project as an extension of their Participation in Government and Economics courses.

For example, one student approached the project through a social emotional lens, researching mental health issues and repainting columns in the eighth-grade quad with inspirational themes.

The pilot was successful in North Salem, Vazquez says, and the district will continue with the program. “The Seal of Civic Readiness supports our school district mission. The student learning was much more than just the acquisition of knowledge obtained in their coursework; they could apply it in a way in which they could impact their local community.”

"Julio's stewardship of the Seal of Civic Readiness work in North Salem was inspiring,” said Fredricks. The impact that it had on the students and staff of the district, and the powerful connections made between community and school, are a testament to his leadership and dedication to the North Salem community. The projects and structures created in North Salem are now inspiring countless students, teachers, and school districts across New York as they embark on their own journeys with the Seal."

Vazquez says he values collaboration with his peers as a member of the BOCES Curriculum Council, a networking group of educators at the district level, and feels he benefits from the support and frequent exchange of ideas with his colleagues in the region. The Council pairs new administrators with a “buddy,” a relationship he benefited from immensely in the past, and he now serves as a buddy for members who are new to the council.

“This type of job can be isolating, so even when we are not meeting, we are constantly in contact with peers, which is extremely helpful. Most recently we’ve addressed DEI, diversity, equity and inclusion, in terms of the curriculum and meeting the needs of the students,” he says.

The collaboration has been valuable to him in North Salem, he says, where “our population has definitely diversified in recent years, with more English Language Learner needs and children who need more support in order to succeed in school.”

Vazquez says he has found BOCES work in Response to Intervention and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support to be extremely helpful in supporting his North Salem community

"Aside from supporting me, I can say that BOCES supports every administrator and teacher in our district through collegial circles, the Hudson River Teacher Center and multiple professional learning offerings. Our relationship with PNW BOCES is invaluable,” he says.

EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY

The Educational Technology Department at Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES helps districts explore new ways to inspire and empower students with a variety of opportunities to support the infusion of technology into teaching and learning, all with an eye toward improving student outcomes.

(914) 248-2329

MODEL SCHOOLS

CO-SER 575

The Model Schools service supports teachers and administrators in leveraging technology in the classroom. Subscription to this service comes with the ability to purchase select instructional software. The subscription includes access to Tech Tuesdays, Think Tanks and user groups. In addition, member districts receive a discount on all workshops sponsored by the Education Technology Department.

Tech Tuesdays: These half-day workshops focus on different instructional topics. Each workshop is structured to allow participants to learn about the topic, share what they know, reflect on their practice and plan for a future lesson.

User Groups: To help districts make the best use of software purchased through our service, we hold user groups where participants can examine software, learn about new features and analyze data. Please consult My Learning Plan for details and further information.

Think Tanks: Think Tanks are offered as a series of workshops and are all about sharing best practices. Each Think Tank will have a specific theme, such as:

• Educational Technologist – Stay current with educational technology trends.

• Special Education – Explore ways to support all learners using technology.

• Teacher Teams – Modify a unit by incorporating technology; try it out with your students and share results.

DISTANCE LEARNING

CO-SER 460

PNW BOCES is part of the New York State Distance Learning Consortium, which offers a large variety of solutions to support the needs of the region. In addition, we have a partnership with iTutor for special programs.

ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

CO-SER 504

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING ACTIVITIES

We are pleased to offer a variety of professional learning opportunities related to how to leverage technology to improve student outcomes. Please consult My Learning Plan for specifics.

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

We have partnered with a number of consultants and will work with you to identify needs and develop a customized solution.

FORUMS

CO-SER 504

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY FORUM

The Assistive Technology Forum seeks to explore the definition, development, delivery and challenges of quality assistive technology services in an effort to support student learning. This free forum is open to all.

GUIDANCE & CHILD STUDY CENTER

The Guidance & Child Study Center offers a wide array of services and professional development opportunities to ensure pathways to success for every student, with a focus on improving school, community and lifelong outcomes of students who are the most vulnerable or those who are marginalized. This includes but is not limited to students with mental health challenges, students with disabilities, students of color, English Language Learners, immigrants and refugees, and students who are LGBTQIA.

EVALUATION AND CONSULTATIVE SERVICES

ANN NARCISSE, ANARCISSE@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2386

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY EVALUATIONS

CO-SER 333

An assistive technology evaluation conducted by a specialist through a collaborative process to determine what technologies would improve a student’s performance, participation and independence.

AUDIOLOGICAL PROCESSING EVALUATION AND CONSULTATION

CO-SER 333

An audiological assessment is conducted by a licensed and certified audiologist.

AUGMENTATIVE AND ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION (AAC) EVALUATIONS

CO-SER 333

A comprehensive evaluation to assist in determining what communication strategies, language systems or devices will assist a student’s learning and communication.

BEHAVIORAL CONSULTATION

CO-SER 333

Consultation with school personnel is provided to develop strategies to address a range of behavioral concerns including those for students exhibiting challenging behaviors in a classroom environment. In addition, behavioral consultants who have credentials as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) are available.

EDUCATIONAL EVALUATION

CO-SER 333

A comprehensive evaluation of educational skills is provided for students in K–12.

FEEDING EVALUATIONS

CO-SER 333

A comprehensive evaluation to identify structural, physiological, sensory or behavioralbased oral/pharyngeal/esophageal deficits that may contribute to the student’s inability to take adequate nutrition orally.

PHYSICAL THERAPY EVALUATION AND CONSULTATION

CO-SER 333

Comprehensive assessment of ability to move throughout the school environment and participate in all aspects of the educational curriculum, along with related consultative services.

FUNCTIONAL VISION ASSESSMENT

CO-SER 333

Vision therapy assessment and consultation helps to determine what enhancements and adaptations may be helpful to maximize the visual potential for each student with a documented visual acuity diagnosis.

GUARDIANSHIP AFFIDAVIT

CO-SER 333

Consultation and services related to the guardianship affidavit process for schools.

MULTILINGUAL (BILINGUAL) EVALUATIONS

CO-SER 333

Evaluations conducted in more than one language include educational, psychological, speech and/or language and/or sociocultural developmental histories, as well as schoolbased consultations.

NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION

CO-SER 333

Comprehensive evaluations and/or consultations are available for preschool children, schoolage children and adolescents with schoolrelated difficulties.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY EVALUATION AND CONSULTATION

CO-SER 333

Comprehensive assessment of fine motor, visual motor, sensory motor, and self-care skills, and related consultative services.

PSYCHIATRIC CONSULTATION

CO-SER 333

Psychiatric evaluation and/or consultation services around a variety of student and classroom needs are available.

PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION

CO-SER 333

A complete range of diagnostic tools will be used to trace a developmental history, identify areas of primary and secondary learning difficulty, assess cognitive and social/ emotional/ behavioral status and specify the impact on student functioning.

SOCIAL HISTORY

CO-SER 333

Social histories for initial referrals or reevaluation purposes are prepared individually or as part of a more comprehensive assessment. Bilingual social histories can also be arranged as requested.

SPEECH AND/OR LANGUAGE EVALUATION

CO-SER 333

An evaluation of speech and/or language skills is provided for students in K–12.

ANN NARCISSE,

SHARED SERVICES

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST

CO-SER 333

A certified Assistive Technology Specialist will provide consultative and training services for students, families and school staff.

DOCUMENT TRANSLATION

CO-SER 333

MEGAN KING MKING@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2380

PNW BOCES translates general, educational, legal, medical, financial and literary documents into the following languages: Albanian, Arabic, French, Malay, Polish, Russian and Spanish. Translations into additional languages are available upon request.

INTERPRETER SERVICES

CO-SER 333

MEGAN KING MKING@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2380

PNW BOCES offers a range of interpreting services to meet the needs of our school districts. Currently we have the capacity to provide interpretation services for most world languages.

NURSING SERVICES

CO-SER 333

DEBRA LAPADULA

DLAPADULA@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2383

A certified licensed practical nurse or registered nurse can provide services for students.

PUPIL SERVICES COORDINATION

CO-SER 334

Coordination/supervision supports district activity by providing professional assistance, advice, supervision or leadership.

SHARED SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST

CO-SER 333

A certified school psychologist will provide testing, diagnostic and/or counseling services.

248-2386

SHARED SCHOOL SOCIAL WORKER

CO-SER 333

A school social worker will provide counseling and/or consulting services to students, parents and staff as well as other services as requested.

TRANSITION COORDINATION SERVICES

CO-SER 333

Our guidance department will work with district teams to provide support in developing plans for postsecondary education, vocational training, competitive employment, the college planning process, career planning process, ACCES-VR application process, as well as guardianship and the Medicaid waiver process.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND STUDENT CONFERENCE SERVICES ASSESSMENT

INSTRUMENT TRAINING

REGIONAL FORUMS

CO-SER

ACTION COLLABORATIVE NETWORK (ACTING CONSCIENTIOUSLY TO IGNITE OPPORTUNITY NOW)

ACTION is a collaborative network of regional school districts committed to learning and working together to accelerate the adoption of gap-closing policies and practices to support the extraordinary performance of all students. ACTION seeks to develop collaborative relationships with regional, state and national partners and provides a forum for inter-district collaborations and shared learning.

EQUITY LEADERS COLLABORATIVE

Using an equity lens, educators implement a vision, set clear and high expectations, and develop and lead principals and teachers to ensure rigorous and culturally responsive instruction.

CO-SER 333

Training for pupil services personnel is provided in administration, scoring and interpretation of a variety of assessment tools.

DIVERSITY AND CULTURAL PROFICIENCY

CO-SER 512

Through interactive exercises and group discussions, diversity awareness and conflict resolution workshops, students learn positive and productive ways of interacting with others and resolving issues that accommodate the diverse nature of a multicultural environment.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR PUPIL PERSONNEL SERVICES

CO-SER 512

Training for administrators, educators, school social workers, school counselors, psychologists and other helping professionals in social and emotional wellness and special-educationrelated areas.

GUIDANCE DIRECTORS FORUM

Directors and leaders in school counseling meet regularly throughout the year to network and address professional needs and interests.

LGBTQ+ INCLUSIVE SCHOOLS COLLABORATIVE

Stakeholders who are dedicated to ensuring schools are safe, welcoming, and affirming for all LGBTQ+ youth and adults meet monthly on a variety of topics.

REGIONAL ENGLISH AS A NEW LANGUAGE PROFESSIONALS FORUM

ENL professionals meet regularly throughout the year to network and address professional needs and interests.

SCHOOL CLINICIANS FORUM

School clinicians meet regularly to network, address needs and share and learn best practices and student bright spots.

PROFILES IN SUCCESS:

To suggest that Dr. Letitia Payne has gotten as far as she has because of BOCES would deny her very obvious natural gift as an educator, but she is the first to acknowledge that the organization has certainly helped.

The Assistant Principal at Putnam Valley High School first took part in a BOCES program as an 11th grader at Walter Panas High School when she participated in Today’s Students, Tomorrow’s Teachers, a program designed to attract high school graduates to the field of education. It certainly worked with Payne, who went on to become a special education teacher in Ossining for 16 years and an administrator for Special Education in Rye before moving to her current position in Putnam Valley.

She has participated in a variety of BOCES programs along the way including receiving School Business Leader and School District Leader certificates through BOCES Center for Educational Leadership. In 2018 she was awarded her doctorate through the PNW BOCES/Manhattanville Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership.

“BOCES has helped me in more ways than I can say,” she says. “They offer cutting-edge topics that are happening in the educational community, and we’re able to hear from leaders in those fields.”

“Every time I go to a BOCES workshop I bring back practical strategies to my district,” she said. “The workshop strategies are easily transferable to the classroom.”

Payne also applauds BOCES for its continued support to workshop participants. She recently participated in a Woman in Leadership workshop, and Putnam Valley is now working with the workshop leader to continue the process.

But Payne also gives back to BOCES, and her work with the Guidance and Child Study Center is making a difference.

“Dr. Payne is an expert administrator and leader in Response to Intervention (RtI) and Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS),” says, Dr. Andrew Ecker, former BOCES Guidance and Child Study Center coordinator.

Her work with the department included a review of MTSS and RtI strategies around the country, which concluded with a presentation at the state level, when she represented the region by contributing to the NYSED Office of Special Education’s State Systemic Improvement Plan work around MTSS.

Payne continues to lead MTSS implementation at the district level and has brought it to Putnam Valley, where all three schools are now aligned.

“She is a tremendous partner of our department, BOCES, and to all in the region,” says Ecker.

LOWER HUDSON REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP CENTER (RPC)

The Lower Hudson Regional Partnership Center is one of 12 centers statewide dedicated to improving outcomes for students with disabilities. The center supports all districts in the Lower Hudson region by providing professional development including training, on-site technical assistance and coaching in the implementation of evidence-based instructional practices and systems that have been proven to improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

This includes regional trainings open to all educators, families and community groups; targeted skills groups for districts around a shared problem of practice; and intensive and embedded technical assistance to high needs districts.

Our support is offered at no cost to districts and school communities in Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester counties in partnership with Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES, Rockland BOCES, Southern Westchester BOCES and Yonkers Public Schools.

Supports are provided to develop the capacity of regional educators in implementing:

• Student self-determination and goal-setting

• High quality individualized educational programs

• Proactive, positive school cultures and discipline systems

• Explicit and specially designed instruction and lesson study

• Literacy and behavioral interventions

• Culturally Responsive and Reflective Practices

• Transition planning systems and postsecondary options

• Work-based learning

• Equitable systems to meet the needs of all learners

THE LOWER HUDSON REGIONAL INFORMATION CENTER (LHRIC)

The Lower Hudson Regional Information Center (LHRIC) is a nonprofit consortium providing educational and administrative technology services to more than 60 school districts in Westchester, Putnam, and Rockland counties. Based in Harrison, N.Y., it is one of 12 Regional Information Centers located throughout New York State. It focuses on delivering cost-effective solutions for today’s demanding educational technology needs. Everything it does supports its belief in the power of meaningful collaboration to support current and emerging technology demands benefiting classroom instruction. LHRIC’s broad spectrum of high-quality service offerings supports its mission of providing K-12 Leadership with its partner districts to achieve their educational technology goals.

LHRIC's comprehensive menu of services includes Managed IT services, internet access, regional internet filtering, unified communications, test scoring, data warehousing, state reporting and verification, CIO mentorship and support, financial and student information systems, data integration, staff development, technology planning, distance education (videoconferencing and online

learning), video streaming, Ed Law 2d compliance and data privacy and security, to name a few. In response to trends and mandates, most recent service additions include: virtual desktop hosting, hybrid hosted VoIP phone systems, multi-factor authentication, digital content ADA compliance systems and DPO support.

The LHRIC values their role in the education of more than 225,000 students, and the support of nearly 12,000 teachers in approximately 300 school buildings connected to the Internet via their Private Wide Area Network. This private network provides a heightened level of security unsurpassed by commercial competition. Our Level 1 Data Warehouse helps provide data protection and is specifically designed to safeguard the personally identifiable information of students, teachers and staff.

The LHRIC collaborates with districts to develop new services that expand the boundaries of traditional classrooms and provide high quality, professional growth opportunities for all district personnel.

REGIONAL SAFETY SERVICES

Districts are provided with customized emergency response training and safety programs to enhance their prevention, preparedness, response and recovery capabilities. The department conducts health, safety and security inspections/investigations, assists with regulatory compliances, and provides a wide range of chemical-management services. Through our consultant services programs, the department is able to address a broad range of needs. These include services such as weather reporting and alerts, chemical waste management, safety speakers, fire inspections, private investigations and air quality, and other industrial hygiene programs.

fguglieri@pnwboces.org

CONTRACT SERVICES

CO-SER 698

ADVANTAGE EMERGENCY DEVICES, INC. provides districts with periodic inspections and maintenance of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) along with audits/consultations of the equipment. They can also provide CPR, AED and first aid training.

ALL PRO CLEANING & RESTORATION, A BELFOR COMPANY provides districts with emergency response cleaning of mold, fire and water damage. They deliver full service property restoration and repair services.

ANONYMOUS ALERTS is a patented anti-bullying app, which helps combat bullying and other negative activity in schools by empowering students to come forward. Anonymous Alerts is already in use by several participating school districts, helping improve student safety by eliminating or reducing issues such as bullying, cyberbullying, weapons and drugs on campus, mental health issues, and more. This app allows students, parents and community members to report issues.

CORPORATE SCREENING AND INVESTIGATIVE GROUP, LLC assists school districts with investigative, security and risk management consulting. The group comprises highly skilled investigators. They perform comprehensive background information analysis, digital forensics, and school district residency investigations.

CPRed provides CPR and first aid education to school districts throughout Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties. Classes for either American Heart Association Basic Life Support, American Health & Safety Institute or American Red Cross are taught to students, nonmedical staff, nurses/health care professionals and athletic coaches.

CRITICAL RESPONSE GROUP assists districts with the creation of usable, accurate maps (collaborative response graphics) to aid in communication and decision-making during a school emergency. Additionally, CRG Inc. will ensure that collaborative response graphics of each district are accessible to the respective law enforcement agencies at the municipal and county-level.

ENVIROSCIENCE CONSULTANTS, INC. assists districts with cost effective solutions for safer school buildings through specialized expertise that includes, but is not limited to, industrial hygiene (asbestos/lead survey, design and air monitoring), biological assessments, environmental assessments, environmental and social impact studies and feasibility studies.

FACILITIES INSPECTION SERVICES, LLC specializes in fire inspections and annual visual inspections for school buildings in New York State. It is owned and operated by Edward Braddick, who has served in school facilities for 35 years.

LANGAN ENGINEERING, ENVIRONMENTAL, SURVEYING, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE AND GEOLOGY, D.P.C. assists districts with on-call environmental, hazmat, industrial hygiene, and engineering services.

MILLER ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP, INC. offers a wide variety of services to our districts. They respond quickly and professionally to chemical spills and are used for their LabPack services. They offer restoration services, including fire or flood cleanup, smoke damage, and drying and mold remediation.

OMNIWEATHER, LLC provides districts with geographically customized weather information using the latest technology. OmniWeather sends text messages instantly about important weather changes or developments.

Notifications are provided as needed, and service includes unlimited call-in phone access to the meteorologists. The winter storm advisory service helps make the right decisions at the right time when facing winter weather threats.

QUALITY ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS

& TECHNOLOGIES

INC. offers training courses in asbestos, lead and hazmat awareness; provides field and technical services including air monitoring and CADD services; environmental services with industrial hygiene, water and soil testing; and safety consulting including PPE reviews, ergonomics, fire and electrical safety, ADA compliance, and trenching and excavations.

WSP USA SOLUTIONS, INC. provides expert consulting and engineering services. Experienced project managers and field staff are able to respond quickly, with the most up-to-date screening and sampling equipment available, and at the most reasonable prices. They perform industrial hygiene, indoor air quality, and safety services and move any environmental or health and safety project expeditiously through the due diligence, exposure assessment, and/or OSHA documentation process. Services include emergency/comprehensive air quality assessments; OSHA compliance sampling; LEED oversight and assistance; risk assessment and HVAC design; lead/asbestos air monitoring; and comprehensive asbestos/lead/PCB inspections.

PRIVATE INVESTIGATION SERVICES

CO-SER 698

AF INVESTIGATIONS provides districts with private investigation services. Illegal residency issues remain a problem for many school districts and are becoming increasingly costly and difficult to manage. In addition to providing strong evidence to remove ineligible students from the rolls, this service provides a broad range of investigative services to include employee misconduct (sexual, malingering, and theft of services and/or supplies) and surveillance of unlawful driving habits of school bus drivers.

REGIONAL CRISIS TEAM & ADMINISTRATORS REGIONAL CRISIS TEAM

CO-SER 333

The crisis teams are available upon request to provide guidance, support and assistance to component school districts in the aftermath of a serious school crisis. Additionally, members receive crisis intervention training as well as share best practices and resources.

CYBERSECURITY SERVICES

CO-SER 698

Currently, we have twelve companies that provide cybersecurity services to school districts in an effort to help mitigate the risks associated with running a network. This includes a variety of services from auditing to penetration testing.

• Acture

• Amplify IT

• BlueOrange Compliance

• Core BTS, Inc.

• Cymetrics

• Education Framework

• MA Polce Consulting

• National Business Technologies

• R20 Consulting

• Trusted Technologies, LLC

• Vistrada

• Virtru

MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Shared services such as Cooperative Bidding, Creative Services, Regional Safety Services, and School Communications, among others, enable districts to cost effectively participate in exceptional programs and services.

LYNN ALLEN, Ed.D. ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT

lallen@pnwboces.org

(914) 248-2310

jryan@pnwboces.org

(914) 248-2302

TODD CURRIE ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT FOR BUSINESS

tcurrie@pnwboces.org

(914) 248-2320

LOUIS T. RIOLO ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT

lriolo@pnwboces.org

(914) 248-2304

JAMES

MANAGEMENT SERVICES

(914) 248-2302

LYNN ALLEN, Ed.D., ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT, LALLEN@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2310

LOUIS T. RIOLO, ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT, LRIOLO@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2304

COORDINATION OF REGIONAL SERVICES

Upon request, the District Superintendent and/or his designees will consult with chief school administrators and local boards on issues such as planning, board-administrator relations, mergers, adjustment of school boundaries and/or any other relevant issues.

COORDINATION/INTERCESSION WITH STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT (SED)

The District Superintendent will assist local districts in clarifying matters of law and regulations and in facilitating communication between New York State Education Department and component districts.

RECRUITMENT SERVICE

The District Superintendent and his designees may assist local school districts in recruitment and selection of chief school administrators.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

OLAS - ONLINE APPLICATION SYSTEM

CO-SER 608

JAMIE MOLINA

JMOLINA@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-3825

OLAS for K–12 Education is a cost-effective, robust online recruitment tool designed with schools in mind. As the go-to recruitment site for over 600 school districts across New York State, OLAS is trusted by candidates to assist them in their job searches. And, with a pool of more than 135,000 candidates, participating schools are able to secure highquality educators, school leaders, non-instructional and clerical staff all through one site, saving both time and money. OLAS helps schools find their ideal match – even for hard-to-fill positions – through advanced filtering and search capabilities. Developed by educational professionals at PNW BOCES to assist schools in streamlining the hiring process, OLAS is committed to recruiting education professionals, providing personalized and responsive service, and continually evolving to meet the changing needs of the K–12 landscape.

THE CHIEF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS ASSOCIATION

The Chief School Administrators Association meets monthly and BOCES provides support services such as coordination, agenda development, researching, arranging professional development activities, retreats and any other tasks designed to assist superintendents in their leadership work.

SCHOOL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATORS ASSOCIATION

Monthly meetings are scheduled with an agenda of topics relevant to the application of school business management. BOCES provides the necessary coordination and communication to assist business officials in their roles. Regional meetings are also held during the year with districts in Southern Westchester and Rockland counties.

HUMAN RESOURCES SERVICES

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP)

CO-SER 616

NEIL BOYLE

NBOYLE@PNWBOCES.ORG

(914) 248-2306

School districts today are dealing with many challenges, all of which can impact employees on a personal level. In this climate, the Putnam/Rockland/Westchester Regional Consortium for Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers a free, confidential, 24-hour-a-day counseling service to employees of participating school districts and their immediate families and can address a wide range of issues that can have an impact on performance. EAP provides face-toface counseling, telephone consultations, online resources, referrals, presentations, trainings and more. To access the program, call 1-800-252-4555 or 1-800-225-2527 or visit the EAP online at www.EducatorsEAP.com

SUBSTITUTE PLACEMENT AND ABSENCE MANAGEMENT

CO-SER 606

NEIL BOYLE

NBOYLE@PNWBOCES.ORG

(914) 248-2306

This service, provided by Frontline (formerly Aesop), is available for purchase through Putnam | Northern Westchester BOCES.

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

TODD CURRIE, ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT FOR BUSINESS, TCURRIE@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2320

EDUCATIONAL PRINTING SERVICE

CO-SER 517

EPS@PNWBOCES.ORG

JACKIE ZENHAUSERN, JZENHAUSERN@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2449

PATTI PFISTER, PPFISTER@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-3698

This digital storefront online ordering system integrates the ordering and printing process electronically and projects emerge as finished offset quality publications whether in black and white or color.

The Educational Printing Service offers high quality laser printing and finishing options such as stitching, GBC punch, trimming, folding, creasing, thermal binding and perfect binding, tab insertion, variable paper size, and carbonless paper forms and student records.

Services include sign-making, wide-format color copying on paper or vinyl and assistance in graphic design. Postal preparations are available to districts. Districts can submit their jobs and follow the production process through the user-friendly web-based site.

LAMINATING

CO-SER 515

EPS@PNWBOCES.ORG

Documents, posters, pictures and certificates can be laminated to any size up to 36 inches, with a quick turnaround time.

MAIL DELIVERY SERVICE

CO-SER 517

EPS@PNWBOCES.ORG

An annual delivery service is available for districts. This service provides pickup and delivery of materials processed by the Educational Printing Service as well as a wide variety of educational materials and general correspondence between PNW BOCES and participating districts.

LABOR NEGOTIATIONS

CO-SER 602

NEIL BOYLE

NBOYLE@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2306

The service collects, analyzes and publishes to a web-based database a compilation of regional data summarizing financial, salary and contract statistics for classified and certificated staff of more than 60 school districts in the lower Hudson Valley region. Special surveys are also part of the service. Workshops are offered to participants and attorneys are available to discuss trends and concerns of recent negotiations and results of ratified contracts.

MANAGEMENT/INSURANCE COORDINATION

CO-SER 699

BHARAT MISTRY

BMISTRY@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-3694

The Putnam | Northern Westchester Health Benefits Consortium provides coordination of a self-funded health insurance plan to participating districts. Representatives from participating districts meet regularly on a Governance Board and a Finance Committee to provide direction for the consortium.

PLANNING SERVICES, MANAGEMENT

CO-SER 603

MONA KELLY

MKELLY@PNWBOCES.ORG (914) 248-2315

BOCES provides support to districts in planning, assessment of management functions, assessment of organizational structure, facilitation of goal-setting processes, human resources audits and other related functions.

BOCES is frequently lauded as an organization that makes a difference. But, like any organization, it is only as good as the people involved: People like Haldane Superintendent Dr. Philip Benante, who, while benefiting from the many programs that BOCES offers its 18 component school districts and beyond, is also a key player in that programming.

Top among these is his involvement with the BOCES Center for Educational Leadership's college partnerships and initiatives. He currently teaches a course on educational research in the Future School Leaders Academy (FSLA), which prepares and certifies candidates as school and district leaders. “I thoroughly enjoy teaching the class and particularly like getting to know the FSLA students across the region,” says Benante. “It’s very rewarding and helps me be a better leader.”

He is also an active contributor in the Special Education Leadership Institute as a focus group leader. “This is incredibly important. Leadership positions in special education are extremely stressful, and the more support we can give these educators the better,” he says. Benante, who has a master's in Special Education and experience in a co-teaching position, can relate directly, but he believes that all administrators need to be closely connected to work with unique learners. “These are the students who stand to benefit the most – or lose the most – in our public-school settings,” he says.

Benante sits on the steering committee of the PNW BOCES ACTION Collaborative Network, which addresses equity related initiatives. He is also a co-facilitator in the monthly learning sessions of BOCES’ Chief School Administrators . As such he works with other superintendents in the 18 component school districts on best practices. This organization forms the basis for the advocacy work of school leaders at the state and federal level.

The Haldane superintendent has also represented PNW BOCES at the state level in NYCOSS – the New York State Council of School Superintendents, a statewide professional organization facilitating aspiring superintendents.

“Dr. Benante is an extraordinary leader, coveted partner and asset to our BOCES and educators in the region,” says PNW BOCES Assistant Superintendent Dr. Lynn Allen. “His continuous generosity of time and expertise has greatly enriched our BOCES and the region.”

But he is quick to point out that he and his district are beneficiaries of much of what BOCES has to offer. “BOCES provides an exceptional level of support,” he says. “We use BOCES programs and services in so many ways. As a small district, we don’t have extensive professional learning support, and so speakers offered through BOCES and all the professional learning programming offerings are extremely valuable.”

Haldane students take advantage of the wide range of offerings at the BOCES Career and Technical Education Center, from Animation to Sports Medicine to Auto Body, and the district’s students with special needs “greatly benefit from BOCES special education” options at Pines Bridge, Walden and Fox Meadow schools, Benante says.

According to Benante, PNW BOCES’ reputation goes far beyond the 18 Putnam/Northern Westchester school districts. "I always sought out PNW BOCES programming, even when I wasn’t in one of the component districts.”

CREATIVE SERVICES DEPARTMENT

Creative Services is a national and state level award-winning department that specializes in visual communications dedicated to the impact of creative and strategic design and video production services. PNW BOCES Creative Services Department is leading the creative resource landscape by helping school districts create a visual language through a wide array of solutions.

VIDEO PRODUCTION SERVICES

CO-SER 690

Video content is an increasingly crucial creative component of a visual communications strategy. The Creative Services Department with our School Communications Service will provide resources that will help districts achieve their messaging goals.

SPOTLIGHT VIDEO

With a professional set including background, lighting, cameras and production staff, the Spotlight Video is designed to capture thought leaders in conversation.

PROMOTIONAL VIDEO

What is the most crucial element of a promotional video? Capturing the attention of the audience through an interesting and compelling story. This category of video service will support and define your district’s brand while boosting district morale and strengthening community engagement.

HIGHLIGHT VIDEO

A highlight video is a series of clips that showcase key features of a program initiative, event or achievement by capturing your audience’s attention and potentially compelling them into action.

EXPLAINER VIDEO

Whether you are looking to describe a simple process or a complex explanation of the overview of a budget, an explainer video will provide your district with the ability to tell its story. These animated videos are often used to inform the community about proposed programs, initiatives, capital projects and budgets.

SIGNATURE VIDEO

A two- to four-minute interview-based message from the district featuring multiple locations. Your district can communicate with your school community audience in a way that will more powerfully form a connection than simply through using print copy.

DISTRICT VIDEO

It is never too early in the school year to begin filming for the purpose of capturing the essence of what a district represents. More often than not, the nuances of growth and experience can only truly be viewed and appreciated through the lens of captured moments through time. An example of a District Video features highlights of events throughout the school year from homecoming to graduation.

DESIGN SERVICES

CO-SER 690

Success in articulating a vision, communicating a concept, and delivering on an actionable plan is multifaceted in today’s modern age. Thoughtful, strategic design helps districts to communicate with their communities effectively and seamlessly to deliver the intended message.

CAMPUS ENVIRONMENT DESIGNS

Campus culture is often influenced by the messaging surrounding the community. School hallways and campus grounds provide a canvas for your district’s voice. Create a poster, wall decals and signage to tell your story.

SPECIAL EVENT MATERIALS

Successful event execution is dependent upon the communication with your audiences. Creative messaging designs include print or digital save the dates, invites, programs, banners, lawn signs and more.

STRATEGIC/SUCCESS PLAN STRATEGIES

When a strategic plan has been created to guide organizational direction, an implementation strategy follows. Our design services will aid in the process of defining how to bring the strategic plan to life through:

• Posters of varying sizes that outline goals and objectives

• Palm cards defining the district’s mission, vision and core values

• Custom designs that can be used on the web, in presentations, print materials and more

• Presentation templates in PowerPoint, Prezi, etc.

HIGH SCHOOL PROFILE

A high school profile needs to be comprehensive and accurately portray the uniqueness of your school. Our design services will help you achieve a professional-level presentation.

PROFILE OF A GRADUATE

Communicating the profile of the local school district graduate has the ability to motivate and influence the school community as a whole. Whether it is posters in the hallways, statements on the pages of event programs or a posting on your district website, we can help to give this message form, function and personality.

BRAND DESIGN COLLATERAL

Brand Design Collateral is the collection of materials and media used to create awareness and promote your messaging and identity. These materials speak for your district brand because they are created congruently with the district’s mission, vision and core values.

Brand Design Collateral materials include:

• Logos

• Signage

• Event Displays

• Flyers

• Stationery Kit

• Banners & Posters

• Postcards & Palm Cards

• Branded PowerPoints

• Brochures

• Catalogs

SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE

Mobile apps, e-newsletters and social media all play a role in today’s fast-paced, high stakes public arena. That's why professional School Communications are so vital. Services include producing traditional newsletters, brochures, calendars, annual reports and press releases as well as creating and maintaining social media accounts such as Facebook pages, Twitter feeds and YouTube channels. The staff of former magazine and newspaper journalists and professional public relations consultants has been consistently recognized for excellence by state and national school public relations associations. Because every school district is different, BOCES creates custom service packages to meet each district’s communications needs and budget. Two service models are offered.

DISTRICT COMMUNICATIONS

CO-SER 690

IN-DISTRICT SERVICE

Districts may contract for a communications specialist to work a set number of days in district providing whatever communications services are needed. This allows the communications specialist to work closely with district leadership while having the support of BOCES’ creative and technical team of specialists in graphic design, videography, social media, web maintenance and print.

RETAINER

Alternatively, communications and design services may be purchased a la carte on a per project/ hourly basis. Districts may purchase a specific number of newsletters or videos or other services.

DIGITAL MEDIA SERVICES

MOBILE APPS

Mobile apps bring districts' resources to a device that parents can access wherever they go. Given that more than 60% of web searches are done on a phone, it makes sense for districts to go mobile. Because economically disadvantaged families are more likely to access the internet from a smartphone than a computer, mobile apps can help close the engagement gap in districts. With a good mobile app, parents will not only be able to access critical district information, they will have a choice of language.

VIDEOS

The fact that more than 500 hours of video are uploaded to YouTube every minute is a testament to the power of video storytelling. With PNW BOCES Video Production Service, school districts can harness that power without ever stepping inside a studio or behind a camera. We will write the script, film and edit videos ranging from highlights that provide fly-on-the-wall glimpses into the classroom to animated explainers to promotional videos to capture your district's brand. Complete service includes professional voice-over artists.

E-NEWSLETTERS

E-newsletters provide up-to-the-minute news and can be accessed anywhere from a home or business computer to a smartphone. Readership is automatically tracked, allowing districts to gauge the effectiveness of their communication efforts. Because they are paperless, e-newsletters save on printing and mailing costs and are eco-friendly.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media has dramatically changed the way school districts tell their stories and communicate with stakeholders. At the School Communications Service at PNW BOCES, our specialists are expert at launching and managing Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram feeds. We’ll manage them for you, so your social media feeds are always fresh, up-to-date and appropriate. The School Communications Service will work with the district’s staff to recognize news that’s social and disseminate it at the lowest cost to the district.

PODCASTING

Nearly one-third of all households report listening to podcasts weekly, and these audio-only broadcasts continue to grow in popularity. If your district wants to reach stakeholders with a podcast of its own, the School Communications Service can help create it.

PRINT NEWSLETTERS

TRADITIONAL MEDIA

Print newsletters remain a valuable tool for reaching certain segments of your audience and are the only way to ensure that the district is reaching every household in the community including those of nonparents. Districts generally use printed newsletters for disseminating school budget information.

PRINT MATERIALS

For communities that prefer printed calendars, the School Communications Service offers branded two- and four-color printed calendars with original photography on glossy or matte paper. Other print materials include posters, palm cards, programs and invitations.

PUBLICITY

Districts that keep community members informed about accomplishments and challenges are more likely to build consensus among voters who ultimately must support district programs and budgets. A School Communications specialist can be assigned to work out of a district, if desired. This arrangement gives districts the best of both worlds: an on-site resource to handle school communications, and the financial benefits and flexibility of a shared service.

WEB DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT

A school district’s website serves as the district’s public face, and should be the best source of comprehensive information about everything from school events to district policies. Working with a number of vendors, the School Communications Service offers districts custom-designed and maintained websites that are lively, user-friendly and attractive at prices districts can afford.

COLLATERAL SERVICES

BOND/FUNDRAISING

Whether your district is seeking to pass a bond referendum to make needed improvements or trying to raise funds to enhance facilities, a fundraising professional can help sell your plan to the public with newsletters, flyers, posters, social media campaigns and more.

BRANDING

When a school district has a strong brand, the community knows what it stands for and, more important, supports its goals and initiatives. That’s why more and more school leaders are borrowing from the corporate sector to create brand identity for their districts. The School Communications Service can help your district create logos, taglines and a consistent image.

CAPTIONING

As more districts are streaming board of education meetings and other events, many are turning to captioning services to ensure that broadcasts are accessible to all. Working with CaptionSync and 3Play Media, the School Communications Service provides both post-production and livestream captioning for school districts.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT

When a district faces a crisis, it is important to contain the damage and control the message so that public confidence in the school system is not lost. BOCES School Communications professionals, many of whom worked in the news industry for years, have the expertise to help your district respond quickly and effectively. We’ll help you gather the facts, develop a plan of action, notify the key audiences, deal with the media, prepare written materials and put your best foot forward quickly and effectively.

GRANT WRITING

Working with seasoned grant writers, the School Communications Service is ready to help districts find potential funding sources for everything from small, classroom initiatives by a single teacher to districtwide programs aimed at all learners.

LIVE PRODUCTION VIDEO

We’ve partnered with LocalLive to bring school districts across New York access to a live production service for sporting and other events on campus. Cameras are installed on your campus wherever requested, and event producers operate the cameras remotely. The district has a branded video channel and a portal for 24/7 on-demand viewing.

MARKET RESEARCH & SURVEYS

Knowing how the district is perceived and what the public values is critical to success. That’s why the School Communications Service has partnered with respected vendors like K–12 Insight and Panorama Education to offer top-notch market research and community engagement services.

MEDIA TRAINING

School leaders are often asked to speak with the media, to convince the community to pass a bond, to share innovative programming and ideas or to address a crisis. The skill and comfort with which leaders communicate can have a lasting impact on the issue at hand and the reputation of the district. Our media trainer, Amanda Bergen, has decades of experience in broadcast news and as a corporate and political communications executive. She will work one-on-one to help leaders learn how to craft and deliver messages effectively.

CREDITS

ABSENCE MANAGEMENT 38

ACADEMICS 8

ACTION COLLABORATIVE NETWORK 34

ADMINISTRATORS REGIONAL CRISIS TEAM 39

ADULT AND CONTINUING EDUCATION 9

ADULT EDUCATION COORDINATOR 9

ANIMATION & MOTION GRAPHICS 4

AQUA THERAPY & POOLS 18

ARCHITECTURE/ENGINEERING 5

ARTS IN EDUCATION 27

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY EVALUATIONS 33

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST 34

AUDIOLOGICAL PROCESSING EVALUATION 33

AUGMENTATIVE & ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION (AAC) EVALUATIONS 33

AUGUST REGENTS ADMINISTRATION 27

AUTO BODY 7

AUTO MECHANICS I & II 7

B

BACK ON TRACK 15

BANK STREET FUTURE SCHOOL LEADERS ACADEMY 22

BARBERING 6

BEHAVIORAL CONSULTATION 33

BILINGUAL TRADES 9

BOND/FUNDRAISING 48

BRAND DESIGN COLLATERAL 45

BRANDING 48

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION 42

C

CAMPUS ENVIRONMENT DESIGNS 45

CAPTIONING 48

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION 2

CAREER EXPLORATION 8

CARPENTRY 5

CDOS COMMENCEMENT CREDENTIAL 8

CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP 20

CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION 27

CERTIFIED FIRST RESPONDER 6

CERTIFIED NURSE ASSISTANT 6

CHIEF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS ASSOCIATION 41

CHILD DEVELOPMENT & EDUCATION I 4

CHILD DEVELOPMENT & EDUCATION II 4

CLASS 14 & 16

COLLABORATIVE LANGUAGE ACADEMIC & SOCIAL SKILLS 14 & 16

COLLEGE AND CAREER FAIR 9

COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMS 22

COMMUNICATIONS 48

COMMUNICATIONS CAREER ACADEMY 4

CONSTRUCTION CAREER ACADEMY 5

CONSTRUCTION ELECTRICITY 5

CONSTRUCTION TRADES 5

CONTINUING EDUCATION SPECIAL FUNDING 9

COORDINATION/INTERCESSION WITH STATE

EDUCATION DEPARTMENT (SED) 41

CORE PROGRAMS 8

COSMETOLOGY CAREER ACADEMY 6

COSMETOLOGY I AND II 6

COUNSELING 17

CREATIVE SERVICES DEPARTMENT 44

CRISIS MANAGEMENT 48

CULINARY ARTS 7

CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTIONAL SERVICES 24

CURRICULUM CENTER 26

CYBERSECURITY SERVICES 39

DESIGN SERVICES 45

DIGITAL FILM & SOUND/SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING 4

DIGITAL MEDIA SERVICES 47

DISTANCE LEARNING 31

DISTRICT COMMUNICATIONS 47

DISTRICT VIDEO 45

DIVERSITY AND CULTURAL PROFICIENCY 34

DOCUMENT TRANSLATION 34

EDUCATIONAL EVALUATION 33

EDUCATIONAL PRINTING SERVICE 42

EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY 30

ELECTRIC VEHICLE TECHNICIAN 7

EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN 6

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP) 41

E-NEWSLETTERS 47

ENGINEERING 5

ENGLISH AS A NEW LANGUAGE LEARNER

CAREER ACADEMY (ENL) 9

ENL IMMERSION 9

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION (CEE) 27

EVALUATION & CONSULTATIVE SERVICES 33

EXECUTIVE COACHING 27

EXPLAINER VIDEO 45

EXPLORATORY ENRICHMENT 27 F

FASHION DESIGN & MERCHANDISING 4

FEEDING EVALUATIONS 33

FORDHAM UNIVERSTIY EDUCATIONAL POLICY

LEADERSHIP PROGRAM 23

FOX MEADOW HIGH SCHOOL 15

FSLA 22

FUNCTIONAL VISION ASSESSMENT (WITH ORIENTATION & MOBILITY) 33

GED (GENERAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT) 9

GRANT WRITING 48

GRAPHIC DESIGN & DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY 4

GUARDIANSHIP AFFIDAVIT 33

GUIDANCE & CHILD STUDY CENTER 32

GUIDANCE DIRECTORS FORUM 34

HEALTH CAREER ACADEMY 6

HEARING IMPAIRED 17

HEATING/VENTILATING/AIR CONDITIONING/ PLUMBING /PIPE FITTING 5

HIGH SCHOOL PROFILE 45

HIGHLIGHT VIDEO 45

HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLING 5

HOSPITALITY CAREER ACADEMY 7

HR AUDIT 23

HUDSON RIVER TEACHER CENTER (HRTC) 26

HUMAN RESOURCES SERVICES 41

INDEPENDENT EVALUATORS 23

IN-DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL LEARNING 26

INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP COUNSELING 17

INTEGRATED SOCIAL STUDIES/ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS CURRICULUM 26

INTENSIVE THERAPEUTIC SUPPORT PROGRAM (ITSP) 14 & 15

INTERPRETER SERVICES 34

INTRODUCTION TO CONSTRUCTION TRADES 5

INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH OCCUPATIONS 6

INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICAL THERAPY/ REHABILITATION 6

L

LABOR NEGOTIATIONS 42

LAMINATING 42

LAW ENFORCEMENT 6

LEADERSHIP ORGANIZATIONS 8

LEARNING CENTER AT FOX MEADOW 15

LEARNING CENTER AT LSB 16

LEARNING CENTER AT WALDEN 14

LIBRARY MEDIA & RESOURCE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 28

LIBRARY RESOURCES PROFESSIONAL LIBRARY SERVICES 28

LIBRARY SERVICES 28

LIFE LEVEL PROGRAMS 8

LITERACY PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 26

LOCAL SCHOOL BUILDING PROGRAMS 16

LOWER HUDSON REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP CENTER (RPC) 37

LOWER HUDSON REGIONAL INFORMATION CENTER (LHRIC) 37

M

MAIL DELIVERY SERVICE 42

MANAGEMENT/INSURANCE COORDINATION 42

MANAGEMENT SERVICES 40

MANDARIN LANGUAGE 27

MANHATTANVILLE DOCTORAL PROGRAM IN EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP 22

MARKET RESEARCH & SURVEYS 48

MASONRY 5

MEDIA 48

MEDICAL ASSISTANT 6

MICROCOMPUTER TECHNOLOGY/CYBERSECURITY/ PROGRAMMING/CODING/GAMING 4

MOBILE APPS 47

MODEL SCHOOLS 31

MULTICULTURAL (BILINGUAL) EVALUATIONS 33

NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION 33

NEW VISIONS ENGINEERING 5

NEW VISIONS HEALTH 6

NEWSLETTERS 48

NINTH & TENTH GRADE PROGRAMS 8

NURSING SERVICES 34

OASIS MIDDLE SCHOOL 16

OASIS AT WALTER PANAS HIGH SCHOOL 16

OC 21 27

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY 17

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY EVALUATION & CONSULTATION 33

OLAS - ONLINE APPLICATION SYSTEM 41

ONLINE COURSES FOR THE 21ST CENTURY 27

P

PACE SCHOOL DISTRICT BUSINESS LEADER

CERTIFICATION PROGRAM 22

PAES LAB 18

PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMS 36

PHYSICAL THERAPY 17

PHYSICAL THERAPY EVALUATION & CONSULTATION 33

PINES BRIDGE PROGRAM 15

PINES BRIDGE AT SUNSHINE 15

PLANNING SERVICES, MANAGEMENT 42

PODCASTING 47

PRESERVATION/RESTORATION/COMMERCIAL

MASONRY 5

PRINT MATERIALS 48

PRIVATE INVESTIGATION SERVICES 39

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR PUPIL

PERSONNEL SERVICES 34

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & STUDENT

CONFERENCE SERVICES ASSESSMENT INSTRUMENT

TRAINING 34

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR LEADERS 22

PROFILE OF A GRADUATE 45

PROMOTIONAL VIDEO 45

PSYCHIATRIC CONSULTATION 33

PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION 33

PUBLICITY 48

PUPIL SERVICES COORDINATION 34

R RECRUITMENT SERVICE 41

REGIONAL CRISIS TEAM 39

REGIONAL ENGLISH AS

S SAFETY CONTRACT SERVICES 39

SCHOOL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATORS ASSOCIATION 41

SCHOOL CLINICIANS FORUM 34

SCHOOL COMMUICATIONS SERVICE 47

SCHOOL METER 23

SCIENCE 21 26

SCIENCE 21 CURRICULUM & PROFESSIONAL LEARNING 26

SEVENTH & EIGHTH GRADE PROGRAMS 8

SHARED SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST 34

SHARED SCHOOL SOCIAL WORKER 34

SHARED SERVICES 34

SIGNATURE VIDEO 45

SMALL ENGINE TECHNOLOGY (DIESEL) 7

SOCIAL HISTORY 33

SOCIAL MEDIA 47

SPANISH GED 9

SPANISH PRE-GED 9

SPECIAL EDUCATION 12

SPECIAL EVENT MATERIALS 45

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY 17

SPEECH AND/OR LANGUAGE EVALUATION 33

SPOTLIGHT VIDEO 45

SPORTS MEDICINE 6

SS/ELA 26

STAFF DEVELOPMENT FOR SCHOOL BUSINESS & SUPPORT STAFF 23

STRATEGIC COHERENCE PLANNING 23

STRATEGIC/SUCCESS PLAN STRATEGIES 45

STUDENT PROGRAMS & SERVICES 27

SUBSCRIPTION DATABASES & E-BOOKS 28

SUBSTITUTE PLACEMENT & ABSENSE MANAGEMENT 41

SUPEREVAL 23

TECHNICAL ENDORSEMENTS 8

THE CHIEF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS ASSOCIATION 41

THE LEARNING CENTER AT FOX MEADOW 15

THE LEARNING CENTER AT WALDEN 14

THE LOWER HUDSON REGIONAL INFORMATION

CENTER (LHRIC) 49

THE PINES BRIDGE SCHOOL 15

THERAPEUTIC CANINE PROGRAM 18

THOUGHTEXCHANGE 23

URBAN FORESTRY/HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILLING 5

UTILITY FIELD TECHNICIAN 5

VETERINARY SCIENCE 6

VIDEO PRODUCTION SERVICES 45 & 47

VIDEO STREAMING/VIDEO ON DEMAND 28

VISUALLY IMPAIRED 17

WALDEN SCHOOL 14

WEB DESIGN & MANAGEMENT 48

WELDING 5

WORK-BASED LEARNING 8

YOUNG AUTHORS PROGRAM 27

REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP CENTER (RPC) 37

REGIONAL SAFETY SERVICES 38

RELATED & SHARED SUPPORT SERVICES 17

REMEDIAL READING 17

TRANSITION COORDINATION SERVICES 34

TRANSITIONS AT PINES BRIDGE 15

TRANSITIONS AT WALDEN 14

TRANSPORTATION CAREER ACADEMY 7

PARTICIPATING SCHOOL DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENTS

Robert Glass, Ph.D. BEDFORD

Laurie Bandlow, Ed.D BREWSTER

James Kaishian, Ed.D. BRIARCLIFF

Mary-Margaret Zehr CARMEL

Christine Ackerman, Ph.D. CHAPPAQUA

Stephen Walker CROTON-HARMON

Carl Albano GARRISON

Philip Benante, Ed.D. HALDANE

Joseph Hochreiter HENDRICK HUDSON

Andrew Selesnick KATONAH-LEWISBORO

Karen Gagliardi, Ed. D. LAKELAND

Christine Tona MAHOPAC

Kenneth Freeston, Ed.D. NORTH SALEM

Raymond Sanchez, Ed.D. OSSINING

David Mauricio, Ed.D. PEEKSKILL

Jeremy Luft, Ph.D. PUTNAM VALLEY

Raymond Blanch, Ph.D. SOMERS

Ronald Hattar, Ed.D. YORKTOWN

CENTRAL OFFICE STAFF

James M. Ryan, Ed.D. DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Lynn Allen, Ed.D. ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT

Todd Currie ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT FOR BUSINESS

Louis T. Riolo ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT

Catherine Balestrieri DIRECTOR, CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Neil Boyle EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

Andrew J. Ecker, Ed.D. DIRECTOR, LOWER HUDSON REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP CENTER

Fred Ende DIRECTOR, CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTIONAL SERVICES

Nicole Ginexi, Ed.D. DIRECTOR, SPECIAL EDUCATION

James W. Heubel DIRECTOR, FACILITIES, OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE

Ellen Lane DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATIONS

Bharat Mistry DIRECTOR OF HEALTH & WELFARE BENEFITS

Jamie Molina DIRECTOR, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

BOCES BOARD MEMBERS

Richard Kreps PRESIDENT, CARMEL

Catherine Lilburne VICE PRESIDENT, GARRISON

Tina Mackay

TRUSTEE, PUTNAM VALLEY

Mary Cay Nilsen

TRUSTEE, BREWSTER

Jennifer D. Rosen

TRUSTEE, BRIARCLIFF

Frank Schnecker

TRUSTEE, OSSINING

Michael Simpkins

TRUSTEE, PEEKSKILL