This month, P-TECH sophomores had the opportunity to test out a variety of career pathways through the use of virtual reality (VR) headsets as a part of their Professional Development and Mentoring class. After putting on a headset, each student could choose from a variety of career experiences. For example, some students performed a routine medical procedure on an animal, while others climbed hundreds of feet in the air to conduct electrical work.

This experience provided students a sample of different career-based work experiences without having to leave campus. They were able to learn about these careers as well as the use of VR headsets in education and career training. Thank you to Ms. Garrett for organizing this event!

On February 7, students in our CTE and P-TECH programs attended an insightful presentation by the Northeast UAS Airspace Integration Research Alliance, Inc. (NUAIR) and partners from the New York State Thruway Authority.

NUAIR, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing aviation technology through innovations such as Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), introduced students to exciting career opportunities in the drone industry. The presentation explored career paths related to programming offered in our P-TECH and CTE courses.

Beyond exploring career possibilities, students gained a deeper understanding of emerging technologies and their impact across industries. They also observed live drone demonstrations, while learning about different types of drones and their real-world applications.

To cap off the experience, students had their group photo taken from a flying drone, leaving them with a memorable glimpse into the future of innovation.

A special thank you to NUAIR and the NYS Thruway Authority for providing such an insightful and inspiring experience!

Students in Mrs. Kovacs’ physics classes, recently took a hands-on approach to learning about Newton’s laws of motion by tackling an exciting engineering challenge. To deepen their understanding of force, stability and design, students were tasked with constructing toothpick and marshmallow structures capable of supporting weight.

Before building, students carefully planned their designs, considering key factors such as:

• Which shapes would provide the strongest support
• How different forces would act on their structures
• What external factors might influence stability
• The best construction procedures for durability

Once their structures were built, students put their designs to the test by gradually adding bags of sand on top, each labeled with its weight in grams. As they carefully stacked the bags, they kept a running tally of the total weight their structures could hold. The competition added an extra layer of excitement, as students watched to see which design would withstand the most force before collapsing.

Through this activity, students were able to see Newton’s laws in action, applying scientific principles to real-world problem-solving and engineering design. Hands-on learning opportunities like these not only reinforce classroom concepts but also encourage creativity, critical thinking and teamwork—skills that are essential in P-TECH and beyond!

This month, the Sunshine Club focused its efforts on raising money to support the KEYS Program -- a 501c3 nonprofit organization that delivers music, hope and smiles to children impacted by cancer and life-threatening illnesses through music outreach, education and advocacy.

As part of this year's KEYS "Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve" event, the Sunshine Club sold Valentine hearts that students and staff could place on their sleeves. A total of 47 students and staff purchased hearts, raising $238 for the KEYS Program! Thank you to everyone who donated and supported the cause! To learn more about the KEYS Program, watch the video below and click the link to visit their website.

Throughout the month of February, P-TECH students in the math and ELA academies created Valentines for those staying at the Presbyterian Residential Center. The original plan was for the students to travel to the center on Valentine's Day to deliver the cards and help to serve lunch. Unfortunately, the students had a snow day, so the trip was canceled.

Nevertheless, Mrs. Colantuoni brought the cards to the residents on her own. She led by example for the students to show them the importance of spreading kindness. Thank you to Mrs. Colantuoni and and to all of the students who made this event possible!

Interested students and their families are invited to attend our CTE and P-TECH Open House on Wednesday, March 12 from 4-7 p.m. Attendees will have the oportunity to visit classrooms, meet teachers and have their questions answered. See the flyer below for full event information.

This is a great opportunity for current students and their families to see completed work and touch base with teachers. The CTE and P-TECH Open House will happen simultaneously, so families who have students in both programs can meet them too!

The Academic Club meets on designated Wednesdays each month from 2:00-3:30 p.m. During this time, students may work on assignments and get extra support from teachers. The following are the upcoming Academic Club dates:

• March 12, 2025
• March 26, 2025

A partnership between the Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES, Mohawk Valley Community College, and Mohawk Valley EDGE.

🌐 www.oneida-boces.org/ptech | ☎️ 315.793.8666

🗺️ 4747 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, NY 13413

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