Genesee Valley BOCES

Press Release:

In the heart of the Genesee Valley, a new generation of healthcare warriors stepped into the light on Friday, March 8, ready to embark on a journey defined by compassion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to serve. 

The Genesee Valley BOCES (GV BOCES) School of Practical Nursing celebrated the graduation of its latest LPN class, a group of 26 individuals whose dreams of nurturing and healing had finally taken flight.

Among these graduates, Jenna Merdak shone as the Valedictorian, with Bryce Wallamn honored as the Salutatorian. Their achievements were a beacon of hope and a testament to the resilience each student had demonstrated. In a world where the healthcare landscape was marred by shortages and challenges, more than half of these graduates had already conquered the NCLEX exam, marking the beginning of their journey into nursing with triumphant success.

Krista Jaggard, one of the proud graduates, reflected on her path to nursing. Her journey was a tapestry of experiences, from human services to home health aide and from CNA to standing at the threshold of her dream. 

"I find it gratifying to help others. It makes my life better knowing I’m doing something good for society," Jaggard said, echoing the sentiment of her peers. 

Her ambition to work in the operating room or emergency department was fueled by a love for the profession and the pride she shared with her classmates—a sentiment that had them all riding high on cloud nine.

For Ashley Staples, another graduate, the LPN program was a dream deferred but never abandoned. Juggling the responsibilities of motherhood with the rigors of nursing school, she exemplified determination. 

"I knew I had to put nursing school first, and missing out on my kids' activities was hard, but I knew I had to study because if not, I could fail, and I couldn't do that because nursing is my future," Staples shared. Her journey was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in pursuit of a calling.

Kristen Bedard, having dedicated thirteen years to caring for the elderly, aspired to bring her wealth of experience and compassion to pediatric nursing. The challenge of stepping outside her comfort zone and the joy of connecting with new people had propelled her forward. 

"If nursing is something you’ve always dreamed of doing, go for it and do the work. Trust your gut, and you will accomplish your goals," Bedard advised, her words a beacon for future nurses.

Marisa Dale, an LPN Instructor, offered wisdom and a touch of realism to her students. "What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make," she quoted, emphasizing the profound impact nurses have on their patients' lives. "You are a nurse, and patients rely on you. Never ever lose sight of the patients," Dale reminded them, underscoring the sacred bond between nurse and patient.

The ceremony was a mosaic of emotions, with each graduate being pinned, some by family members who were nurses themselves. This tradition, linking generations of caregivers, underscored the deep-rooted connections and shared commitments that bound them.

Behind the success of these graduates stood a dedicated team of LPN instructors, whose unwavering support and guidance were pivotal in navigating the rigorous journey of nursing education. These educators, with a blend of expertise, patience, and passion, crafted an environment where learning flourished amidst challenges. 

Their tireless efforts, often extending beyond the confines of the classroom, ensured that every graduate was not just prepared academically but was also instilled with the core values critical for a successful nursing career.

The graduates, Julie Affeldt, Kristen Bedard, Andrew Brown, Amanda Buckner, Marjorie Castillo, Taylor Cox, Randi Donaghy-Bailey, Laniyah Dukes, Heather Findley, Koran Glover, Anessa Gonzalez, Shaquille Harp, Kimberly Hedgebeth, Jazmine Holmes, Krista Jaggard, Jolynn Lamphrom, Lanina Martinez, Shallie McMullen, Jenna Merdak, Diana Morales-Rosario, Sydnie Santillo, Noah Schultz, Ashley Staples, Bryce Wallamn, and Kayla Wilson, stood at the gateway to their futures, intent on making a meaningful difference.

As they embarked on their respective paths, the words “on hard days, never forget why you became a nurse" served as a compass, guiding them through the trials and triumphs that lay ahead. In the heart of the Genesee Valley, a new chapter in healthcare had begun, heralded by the courage, dedication, and compassion of 26 remarkable individuals.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

On Saturday, Jan. 20, the Genesee Valley School Board Association (GVSBA) met for their annual breakfast hosted by the Byron-Bergen Central School District. 

The event included superintendents and representatives from districts throughout the GLOW region as well as Assemblywoman Marjorie Byrnes, Assemblyman Steve Hawley, and Gregg Torrey representing Senator George Borrello. The gathering served as an opportunity for the school administrators and school board members to discuss issues with their state representatives and
honor the 2024 recipients of the Excellence in Student Service awards.

“I was very pleased with the nominations as they came in this year and the wide range of programs,” said GVSBA Coordinator Pat Burk. “It shows that schools are thinking outside of the box to make what they do much more accessible as well as entertaining and really, really special.”

Twenty school districts and Genesee Valley BOCES received Excellence in Student Service awards. Byron-Bergen was honored for the district-wide therapy dog program which launched in 2021 through the efforts of district staff and retired Byron-Bergen teacher Jen Faro. The program began with one therapy dog, Pinot, owned by Faro, and has quickly expanded to include six dogs and additional visiting dogs from the Rochester-based not-for-profit, RocDogs.

Pinot, Maya, Dottie, Stew, Hula, and Daisy are valuable members of our team,” said Byron-Bergen Superintendent Pat McGee. “These therapy dogs are boots on the ground, in the district supporting student and staff mental health. I am extremely proud of this program and believe that they deserve this recognition.”

The award was presented by Burk and GVSBA and Byron-Bergen School Board President Deb List. The award was accepted by McGee, Director of Instructional Services Betsy Brown with her therapy dog Dottie, and Byron-Bergen High School Counselor Kristie Holler with her therapy dog Stew.

“The therapy dogs are here for all of our students as well as the staff,” said Brown. “There are students who specifically visit the office just to see Dottie and receive some love and attention. Research shows that interacting with therapy dogs reduces stress and anxiety and I’m thrilled that Dottie and I can be active participants in the program.”

The event also included a performance by the Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School Jazz Ensemble led HS Band Director Kevin Bleiler, breakfast catered by the Byron-Bergen Food Service Department, and discussion sessions in which school and elected officials discussed rural education.

The end of the NFL regular season brings words that I like to put into practice as an economic and workforce professional. None is better than the cliché than a team is “controlling its own destiny.” 

It’s a reward and a challenge.

You’ve earned that control by outperforming your peers. You need to keep winning, and the next step of your journey is assured.

That’s also what makes this part of our workforce development calendar so energizing. Youth apprenticeships reward our most engaged students by giving them their pick of career opportunities.

Just ask Bailey Burdett, a current HP Hood technician and former Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program electro-mechanical technician graduate who has earned significant hours of related training and instruction that is applied to his apprenticeship coursework.

And although he needs to complete four years of on-the-job experience, he only needs to take four more classes during his apprenticeship to become a Journey Worker electro-mechanical technician.

Similar to players emerging as key playoff contributors, Bailey is getting his reps in as he grows, and the best part is that like NFL practice squad players, he and others in apprenticeship programs still get paid on the way to the big time.

Students can join the Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program during their junior year of high school where they will job shadow at various employers throughout the region including Tambe Electric, Oxbo, Nortera and others.

This is where students observe the type of work that is performed daily, taking in the bustling and robust atmosphere of the advanced manufacturing industry. 

It’s like you’re the rookie who was just drafted and are trying to find your way in the professional world. You get to take in practice and have an older veteran take you under their wing. This process is all about asking questions and figuring out where you fit in. Taking this portion of the job seriously is essential if you want to succeed in this evolving industry.

The real fun begins after your job shadow.

In your senior year, after you receive in-class instruction using state-of-the-art mechatronics equipment at Genesee Valley BOCES in the morning, you will go to your designated employer to receive paid on-the-job training.

This is your time to shine! You get to showcase everything you learned the past year and prove to your peers and teammates why you belong in your industry.

After the youth apprenticeship program, you will have received up to 288 hours of training, equivalent to two years of apprenticeship-related training and instruction.

You’ll be well on your way to completing your apprenticeship hours required to work as a technician, and getting a head start against the competition.

Be like Bailey and the dozens of graduates that have completed these programs. Take your career into your own hands!

Coach SwazZ is ready to help, to answer your questions, and to make a connection for you. Contact me at 585-343-4866 or csuozzi@gcedc.com.

Press Release:

Janet Green, a seasoned LPN instructor for the Adult Education Nursing Program at Genesee Valley (GV) BOCES, is a pillar of both knowledge and compassion in the medical field. With a decade of dedication to GV BOCES and an extensive background in nursing, Green's career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to healthcare.

Before transitioning to teaching, Green spent an impressive 35 years at UR Medicine Noyes Health in Dansville, where she worked in the maternity ward and the emergency department. The wealth of experience she gained there laid the foundation for her role as an instructor, where she imparts her wisdom to aspiring nurses.

For an astounding 33 years, Green has devoted her summers volunteering at the Genesee Valley Rotary Camp, which provides a free, week-long overnight camping experience for children aged 8 to 21 with special needs. What started as a friend's invitation to assist as a camp nurse in 1990 became a lifelong commitment for Green.

By 1995, she had assumed the role of health director for the camp, overseeing the well-being of the campers throughout the week. 

With a team of dedicated individuals, Green ensures that the campers, ranging from those in wheelchairs to those requiring tube feeding, experience a week filled with various activities every summer. From swimming and archery to music and adaptive physical education, the camp offers a range of opportunities for the children to explore
and enjoy. 

"We have a motto," Green said. "If you knew where and when a miracle was going to take place, wouldn't you want to be there? Every single year we see that.” 

Recognizing the importance of practical experience, she encourages her LPN students to volunteer at the summer camp. This camp holds a special place in Green's heart. For Green, the camp is not just a volunteer opportunity; it's a chance to make a difference in the lives of these children.

"My favorite part is the kids. I love the kids; they're my kids," she said with a warmth that reflects the genuine connection she forms with each camper. 

Green's dedication to the camp goes beyond her individual efforts; she transforms volunteering into a family affair. Her husband, son, daughter-in-law, and even her grandchildren, all join in the noble cause, contributing their time and skills to create a memorable experience for the campers.

Green continues to convey her nursing knowledge to future healthcare professionals during the academic year. She eagerly awaits the summers, knowing that amidst the trees and laughter of the Genesee Valley Rotary Camp. Green believes that miracles are bound to happen, and she wouldn't want to be anywhere else.

The Genesee Valley Rotary Camp, located in Portageville relies on fundraisers and donations to operate. The Rotary Clubs in Genesee Valley sponsor the children and support from other community organizations and members is welcomed. For more information contact info@gvrc.org.

Press Release:

Genesee Valley BOCES is thrilled to announce an Open House event at the Batavia Campus on Oct. 26, scheduled from 5 - 7 p.m. This event is exclusively for parents and guardians of current or prospective students, providing an exceptional opportunity to explore the diverse educational offerings and pathways at the Batavia Campus.

Discover the opportunities awaiting you at the Batavia Campus Open House on Oct. 26, 5 - 7 p.m. Delve into Career and Tech, ITP, Alternative Education, Transitions, and WEST programs. Immerse yourself in our classrooms, engage with instructors, and witness the inspiring paths of our students. Your journey to the future begins now!

Parents and guardians attending the Open House will have the chance to explore various facets of the educational experience.

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the diverse career opportunities available, including programs in Career and Tech. Explore the offerings and support provided by our Intensive Therapeutic Programs, fostering a holistic approach to education.

Delve into the Alternative Education and Transitions programs, designed to cater to unique educational needs and ensure a smooth transition to the next phase. Learn about the WEST (Workforce and Employability Skills Training) program, which equips students with essential skills for success in the workforce.

The Open House provides an opportunity to interact with dedicated instructors and staff from various programs, gaining insights into the learning environment.

This Open House is designed to strengthen the connection between parents, guardians, and the educational community, promoting collaboration and informed decision-making regarding the educational journey of their students.

Join us on Oct. 26 from 5 - 7 p.m. at Genesee Valley BOCES in Batavia. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the educational landscape and discover the possibilities that await.