Genesee Valley Educational Partnership

Press release:

The Batavia Business and Professional Women’s Club is announcing their Annual Scholarship and Community Service Awards and calling for applications.

Scholarships are open to all graduating seniors (male or female) in Genesee County high schools and the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership (GVEP). The students need to have maintained an 85 percent average and must complete the application process available through the Batavia Business and Professional Women’s website or via Facebook.

Deadline: April 9.

All schools in Genesee County and GVEP have been emailed information on this program, which includes eligibility requirements, guidelines, and the scholarship application.

Parents and students are advised to seek out their school’s guidance counselor / department to receive the needed information.

The Batavia Business and Professional Women’s Club has provided scholarships since 1961. The number and dollar amount of scholarships awarded are dependent on the club’s annual fundraisers. Local community support is greatly appreciated; watch for upcoming event announcements.

The Batavia Business and Professional Women’s Club will also offer monetary awards for service groups in June 2021. Any service group in Genesee County may apply for this by sending a letter of request on your organization’s letterhead.

Deadline for both the Scholarship Applications and the Community Service Awards letters are to be postmarked by Friday, April 9.

Mail to:

Batavia Business and Professional Women's’Club

P.O. Box 1778

Batavia, NY 14021

Photo and information from Genesee Valley Educational Partnership.

Step inside Doug Russo’s classroom at the Batavia Career and Technical Education Center and you will see a plethora of computers, all outfitted with the latest graphic design software.

It is a point of pride for him after spending the last six years at his alma mater (Class of '88) revamping the Graphic Arts curriculum and upgrading the equipment.

Prior to that, his career path after high school graduation took him many places -- as owner of a printing company, and also a partner in a pizzeria where he was responsible for the marketing and advertising.

Russo also served on the Advisory Board for the Graphic Arts Program. When a colleague told with him that longtime Batavia CTE Center Graphic Arts instructor Joe Burnett was set to retire, Russo decided teaching was the next step to further his professional goals.

After he successfully went through the hiring process and landed the job, he got busy making improvements so juniors and seniors can learn cutting-edge skills for an ever-evolving workforce.

The two-year Graphic Arts Program, like the majority of those at CTE, is project-based.

“The framework of the Graphic Arts curriculum is designed to provide students with the knowledge and foundational skills to continue their journey into higher education and explore, as well as, pursue career opportunities," Russo said.

Students also learn marketing and business principles in the class.

“My goals are for students to enter a safe environment, not only to obtain graphic art skills but also have the ability to gain self-confidence, problem-solve, be creative and innovative, and learn to collaborate with others,” Russo said.

“Ultimately, I want to guide students towards building a foundation for higher-order thinking, and my curriculum strives to promote lifelong learning of highly transferrable skills.”

Inspiring students is one of Russo’s strengths. Recently, two of his students were recognized as winners of logo contests.

“Chloe Schnitter won a logo contest for GLOW Woman Rise organization and Fanny Venegas's cover design was selected for the Rochester International Auto Show publication that will be held in Rochester...in March of this year,” Russo said. 

Russo is proud of his students’ successes; one student's success is particularly extraordinary.

“A few years back we had a student who had limited eyesight and was legally visually impaired," Russo said. "His name was Thomas Buboltz and he attended the New York State School for the Blind. Thomas came to class every day, worked hard, and did not let his disability defeat him.

"Due to his hard work and his accomplishments, Thomas was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society. A great day for Thomas occurred when he was interviewed by Doug Emblidge, news anchor from WHAM TV13, about his successes in the Graphic Arts Program.”

Russo’s commitment to helping his students succeed is evident not just in the awards and recognition they receive, but in his promise to them.

“The most important thing I want students to learn, regardless of their background, is that education is an investment in their future and learning never stops,” he said. “Learning and hard work will pay dividends. It's a way to overcome those challenges they face and a way to accomplish their goals.”

In January, Russo was recognized at the Genesee Valley School Boards Association’s (GVSBA) annual Legislative Breakfast for his dedication and commitment to his students.

“This award was designed to highlight programs that are unique and beneficial for students that go above and beyond what is required and provide a service that is needed,” said Patrick Burk, GVSBA executive director.

Photo: Doug Russo, Batavia CTE Center Graphic Arts instructor (center) surrounded by his afternoon class.

About the Batavia Career and Technical Education Center

It is a program of the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership. The Partnership operates as a Board of Cooperative Educational Services offering shared programs and services to 22 component school districts located in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston and Steuben counties in New York State.

Press release:

The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership will hold an Open House from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 22, for anyone interested in learning more about upcoming classes for the Licensed Practical Nursing or Certified Nursing Assistant programs.

The Open House will be held at the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership’s Batavia Campus at 8250 State Street Road, Batavia.

LPN and CNA Instructors will be available to meet and speak with potential students.

The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership School of Practical Nursing has been in existence since 1994. It is a 1,200-clock-hour program, certified by the New York State Education Department, and is designed to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-PN Examination for licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Every student who enrolls in the Licensed Practical Nursing Program receives a Chromebook computer as part of their tuition fees. This computer becomes the property of the student and it is used for many purposes. Course curricula includes a broad scope of topics including foundations of nursing, human growth and development, obstetrical and pediatric nursing, human anatomy and physiology, pharmacology and more.

The CNA Program is also offered at the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership. This course is no less than a 150-clock hour program, approved by the New York State Education Department, and designed to prepare graduates for immediate employment following successful mastery of the post-program certification testing.

The LPN Program is offered at three different site locations: Batavia, Rochester Tech Park in Gates, and Mount Morris. The CNA Program is offered at two different locations, Mount Morris and Batavia.

For more information or any questions, please call 585-344-7788.

About the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership

It operates as a Board of Cooperative Educational Services offering shared programs and services to 22 component school districts located in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston and Steuben counties in New York State.

Submitted photo and press release:

The Ferdinand DiBartolo NYS Distinguished Foreign Language Leadership Award was presented this year to Elizabeth Slocum (inset photo, right).

The award is presented annually to the president of New York State Association of Foreign Language Teachers in recognition of his/her dedication and service to that organization and the profession.

Slocum is a teacher of French and Spanish at the middle, high school and undergraduate levels.

Slocum holds permanent New York State Certification in French and Spanish, as well as certification as a School District Administrator and Supervisor.

She currently is employed by the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership as a seventh- and eighth-grade Spanish teacher and serves both the Wyoming and Pavilion Central School districts.

Slocum also works with the Genesee Region Teachers’ Center as a member of the Policy Board and coordinator of the regional World Language Teachers’ Network.

“Serving on the executive board of New York State Association of Foreign Language Teachers has been an incredible experience," Slocum said. "It has been an honor to represent New York State teachers and students of World Languages at the local, state and national levels.

"I teach because I believe that languages are at the heart of the human experience. Languages will open doors and make connections for our students at home and abroad.”  

As a 25-plus year member of NYSAFLT, Slocum has been an active member of the association through her participation on various committees as well as serving on the Board of Directors. She holds the distinction of chairing not one but two Annual Conferences, including the 100th Annual Conference and Gala.

She was selected to represent NYSAFLT at American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages’s (ACTFL) inaugural Leadership Initiative for Language Learning (LILL) and remains an active member of LILL Cohort 1. She will participate in a LILL panel at ACTFL 2019 in Washington, D.C., on the topic of Growing Our Leadership.

In 2017, Slocum was honored by Genesee Community College with the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence as an adjunct instructor of World Languages.

About the Ferdinand DiBartolo NYS Distinguished Foreign Language Leadership Award

Ferdinand DiBartolo was a pioneer in the establishment of what was then called “The New York State Federation of Foreign Language Teachers.” He was a foreign language leader and an officer of the federation. In l967, he received the "50th Anniversary Award" of the organization.

He was at the forefront of the effort to ensure the continuance of the Modern Language Journal when ACTFL was formed.

The study of world languages fosters an appreciation and understanding of other cultures, promotes a better understanding of one’s own language and culture, supports learning and improves performance in other content areas, and cultivates the qualities of global citizens who are well-educated and prepared to compete professionally in an increasingly interconnected world.

Research has shown that early language instruction not only facilitates the language learning process, but results in more native-like pronunciation and fluency in the second language. In addition, early language instruction has been shown to strengthen students’ performance in their first language as well as in other content areas.

About the New York State Association of Foreign Language Teachers

NYSAFLT is a professional organization dedicated to providing the foreign language teachers of New York State with professional development opportunities and promoting the study of foreign languages and cultures.

For more information about NYSAFLT, please visit the website.

Press release:

The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership’s Practical Nursing Program recently had a reaccreditation of programs by the New York State Office of Professions Division of Professional Education Program Review.

These audits occur approximately every five years and include a thorough review of curriculum, clinical sites, staff qualifications, as well as student and instructor files.

The New York State Office of Professions oversees the licensing and regulation of more than 50 professions and is guided by the New York State Board of Regents.

According to its website, “The registration of a program means that it has met the Department's standards for accreditation as provided in the Rules of the Board of Regents and the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education.”

Heidi Mix is the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership’s coordinator of Regional Medical Programs. She oversees both Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Programs.

Audit Crucial to Continuing Success

Mix explained the extent of the audit: “This reaccreditation is crucial to the success of this program. If you do not have this approval, then you are not permitted to offer this program. We just received official notification that we received our reaccreditation. In our debriefing, the auditors praised the work that is being done in our nursing programs.

"We are moving in the right direction with our curriculum, and the use of Google classroom, an educational blackboard system, which allows students access to content at any time and it also is a great communications tool for students and instructors.”

This three-day review was completed by state auditors who visited classroom sites, met with students, staff, and administrators. Auditors reviewed instructors’ credentials and evaluations, as well as student files including admissions and graduation processes, board passing and job placement rates.

“The auditors were also impressed with the number of clinical sites that we provide," Mix said. "Clinical experiences provide opportunities for students and potential employers to work together. We have 23 sites and this includes large and small acute-care facilities, and nursing homes throughout the Rochester region as well as Genesee and Livingston counties."

The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership School of Practical Nursing has been in existence since 1994. It is a 1,200-clock-hour program, certified by the New York State Education Department, and is designed to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-PN Examination for licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Chromebook and Online Learning Augment Classroom Instruction

Every student who enrolls in the Licensed Practical Nursing Program receives a Chromebook computer as part of their tuition fees. This computer becomes the property of the student and it is used for many purposes.

“Students have access to many electronic books and databases such as online lessons/modules and interactive activities that augment classroom curriculum and enhance the educational experience,” Mix said. “Each student can create their own dashboard and monitor their progress.”

Course curriculum includes a broad scope of topics including foundations of nursing, human growth and development, obstetrical and pediatric nursing, human anatomy and physiology, pharmacology and more.

The CNA Program is also offered at the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership. This course is no less than a 150-clock-hour program, approved by the New York State Education Department, and designed to prepare graduates for immediate employment following successful mastery of the post-program certification testing.

The LPN Program is offered at three different sites: Batavia, Rochester Tech Park in Gates, and Mount Morris. The CNA Program is offered at two different locations, Mount Morris and Batavia.

For more information or any questions, please contact 585-344-7788.

About the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership

It offers a broad scope of adult education programs including a School of Practical Nursing and a Certified Nursing Assistant program, vocational training, as well as classes for those seeking to broaden their skill sets. The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership operates as a Board of Cooperative Educational Services offering shared programs and services to 22 component New York school districts located in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston and Steuben counties.

In addition to Galban’s visit, the students’ study of Native American culture included a field trip to Ganondagan State Historic Site. Also known as Boughton Hill, it is a Native American historic site in the present-day Town of Victor in Ontario County. It was the largest Seneca village of the 17th century.

During the field trip, the children experienced song, dance, storytelling, traditional arts, and culture during the annual Haudenosaunee Day celebration. They also presented their Haudenosaunee cultural artifact projects to other students.

Below, Tonia Galban working with student.

Below, the class displays their finished projects.

Above photo: Douglas Nickerson (right) celebrates his first-place win with the Town of Gates Police Chief James VanBrederode. 

Submitted photos and press release:

Students in the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership Transitions Program participated in the Special Olympics Regional Bowling Series event that was held at AMF Gates Lanes in Gates on Nov. 1.

During this two-day event, bowlers competed against students in their age bracket. Shanna O’Donovan, Special Education/Transition teacher noted.

“The students cheered each other on and met other students from different schools," O’Donovan said. "Our students learned the importance of good sportsmanship, and teamwork."

Transitions students Miranda Higgins, Todd Claud, Gabriella Pratt, Olivia Bevacqua, Douglas Nickerson, Joe Caito, Kyah Huette and Elizabeth Rex participated in the Special Olympics Regional Bowling Series event.

Douglas Nickerson earned a first-place award and Joe Caito received third place.

“I was so happy to earn first place,” Nickerson said. "I never practiced."

“This was my first time going to a Special Olympics event," Rex said. "I learned a lot and it was so much fun.”

“This was my first-time bowling!" Caito said. "I was very surprised that I won third place.”

The Special Olympics Bowling event allows for the use of bowling ball ramps by athletes who do not have the physical ability to roll a ball with their hand or hands. Additionally, Special Olympics allows bowlers who complete at least three frames and cannot continue to receive 1/10th of their average per remaining frames toward their event score.

The Transitions Program offers a 12:1+1 (12 students, with one certified special education teacher and one teaching assistant) continuum of career awareness, exploration, preparation and work-based experiences to prepare students for entry-level employment.

Photo below: the group of Transitions/Special Education students at the Special Olympics Regional Bowling Series in Gates earlier this month.

Submitted photo and press release:

Hard working and motivated are just two of the words that instructors used to describe Jay Lewis, who recently earned a Class B commercial driver's license through an Adult Education program of the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership.

A 2019 graduate of Genesee Community College (GCC) and 2017 graduate of Batavia City Schools (he graduated from high school at the age of 16), Lewis completed this CDL training while attending college full time.

Though this is no small feat, Lewis is modest about this accomplishment.

“I work part time at Torrey Farms, my cousin’s farm in Elba, and I knew that they needed drivers for their hay trucks, so I knew that it would be helpful to them if I earned my CDL license," Lewis said. "I thought that if I got this license, these skills could also help me to be more marketable in the future."

The 30-Hour CDL Class B License training course was a lesson in time management for Lewis.

“I’m grateful that the instructors were flexible with scheduling my coursework because I was able to fit this into my schedule of GCC classes,” Lewis said.

“The instructors were thorough and detailed," he said."Besides the specific training for this CDL Class B license, I learned so much about being a safe and aware driver, which is valuable training that any driver can apply."

Art Keicher is a CDL instructor for Adult Education at the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership, a position he’s held for 23 years.  He described Lewis as a solid student and also explained how the CDL Program is structured.

“Jay was a terrific student; he was eager to learn, always on time and very responsible," Keicher said. "He will be a great driver. We offer full- and part-time programs. The goal is to offer CDL instructional programs that work for everyone.

"So many people in this day and age change careers. We aim to meet the needs of our customers by being as flexible as possible so we can create a plan that works for everyone. That’s what trucking is all about."

The training includes one-to-one instructor-to-student training ratio, field training for highway, rural and city driving including day and nighttime traffic conditions. Defensive driving, backing, emergency procedures and safety are emphasized. Keicher noted the many opportunities available in this field.

“This is a great occupation!" Keicher said. "Where else can you invest six weeks of training and start in a career making between $40-45,000 per year? We see people who were financially struggling before they begin the training and after they completed the training, they now own a trucking company."

Lewis currently attends Rochester Institute of Technology, where he is studying Mechanical Engineering Technology. He continues to work part time at Torrey Farms.

The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership offers four different driving training programs including: two Class A License courses; a Class B course; and a School Bus Driver 42-Hour Program.

For more information about any of these Commercial Driver’s License Programs or any Adult Education Program, contact (585) 344-7704.

Top photo: Art Keicher, CDL Instructor, watches as Jay Lewis completes a tire check before operating a dump truck.

Above, LPN Valedictorian 2019: Heidi Mix, director of Regional Medical Programs (left) with Class Valedictorian Jenna Staheli.

Submitted photos and press release:

The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership recently celebrated the graduation of 23 students from its School of Practical Nursing program. Of these 23 students, 18 students graduated with high honors, a 90 percent or above.

Students took part in this 12-month, 1,200-clock-hour program that is certified by the New York State Education Department. It is designed to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-PN Examination for licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

This course is offered in three different sites located in Batavia, Rochester Tech Park in Gates, and Mount Morris.

“As a nurse, you can truly make a difference in someone’s life; you could help save a life or help bring a new one into the world," said Heidi Mix, regional director of medical programs. "You can care for patients as they recover, and assist families through some of the most difficult times in their lives.

"A career in healthcare truly is rewarding. The need for nurses grows every day. Our School of Nursing Programs have a 100-percent placement rate.”

For more information about this program, contact the Adult Education/School of Practical Nursing at (585) 344-7788.

Below, LPN Perfect Attendance 2019: Heidi Mix, director of Regional Medical Programs, (left) congratulates LPN graduates Jenna Staheli, Amanda Booth and Denise Bagwell, for earning perfect attendance.

About the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership:

It offers a broad scope of adult education programs including a School of Practical Nursing and a Certified Nursing Assistant program, vocational training as well as classes for those seeking to broaden their skill sets. The Partnership operates as a Board of Cooperative Educational Services offering shared programs and services to 22 component school districts located in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston and Steuben counties in New York state.

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) has announced that the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership (GVEP) will receive the Economic Development Partner of the Year award at the agency’s annual business meeting, which takes place March 8 at Batavia Downs.

GVEP serves more than 24,000 students in 22 school districts in  Genesee, Livingston, Steuben and Wyoming counties. The Partnership offers a wide range of programs and services including career and technical education, special education, alternative education, instructional and technical support services, and management services.

“The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership has been instrumental in advancing workforce development initiatives in Genesee County and across the GLOW region,” said President and CEO of GCEDC Steve Hyde. “We look forward to celebrating the Partnership’s tremendous achievements as we continue to invest in the youth of Genesee County.”

GVEP played an instrumental role in bringing a new program called Edge Factor into Genesee County schools. Edge Factor provides a high-tech Web platform and creates high-end videos for students, parents, teachers, counselors and businesses that help introduce the stakeholders across the county to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) career pathways that align with the type of jobs currently in demand across the region.

“The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership (the Partnership) is honored to be selected as the Genesee County Economic Development Center’s 2019 Partner of the Year,” said District Superintendent for The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership Kevin MacDonald.

“We truly appreciate our partnership with the GCEDC as we create and develop new programs and services that are aligned to meet the needs of our communities, businesses and workforce. We are pleased to support the introduction of Edge Factor as a local resource for students to explore regional career prospects.”

The theme of this year’s annual meeting is “Investing in Our Strongest Assets.” The event will emphasize the GCEDC’s workforce talent development and shovel-ready site development achievements, and thank the partners involved in those efforts.

Graphic Art students at the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership have been busy designing wristwatches using Adobe Illustrator.

They were placed in teams to work collaboratively on the designs for the Graphic Arts Watch Contest.

There is quite an array of styles -- sleek and modern, retro, kitschy, sporty, glitzy, with nods to space aliens, Pringles, Alice in Wonderland, and more. Creativity unquestionably is channeled into each timepiece.

To determine the winning design, Graphic Arts instructor Doug Russo is asking people to look at the watch designs posted in a survey and choose ONE that you like best and would buy if you could. When you've selected your choice, click on the circle below the design you like.

Then submit the survey online. You must provide your email address to submit the survey.

You can only submit the survey once.

If you are unable to submit the link form, you can still look at the designs and email Russo back with your choice at:   drusso@gvboces.org

The survey link is here.

Photo: Hannah Pierson (right), Culinary Arts student from Le Roy CS, accepts the Rochester American Culinary Federation Scholarship and Chef Russell Bugbee Memorial Award from Chef Tracy Burgio, Culinary Arts instructor at the Batavia CTE Center. 

Submitted photo and press release:

Batavia, New York, June 25 – The Batavia Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center recently celebrated the achievements of 309 seniors at an awards program earlier this month at Le Roy High School. During this ceremony, 25 scholarship awards were presented.

The scholarship winners, their programs and home schools are noted below.

Student of the Year (a.m.): Casey Shaw, Pembroke CSD, Health Dimensions

Student of the Year (p.m.): Zachary Boneberg, Le Roy CSD, Criminal Justice

Blakeslee Award: Christian Bradt, Oakfield-Alabama CSD, Building Trades

Donald Abramo Jr. Memorial Award: Vanessa Horseman, Batavia CSD, Metal Trades; Garrett Sando, Byron-Bergen CSD, Metal Trades

Gene Haas Foundation Scholarship: Matthew Kurowski, Attica CSD, Metal Trades

Master Manufacturing Scholarship: Matthew Kurowski, Attica CSD, Metal Trades

James P. Donnelly Memorial Award: Bradly Arnold, Oakfield-Alabama CSD, Building Trades; Cameron Brumsted, Byron-Bergen CSD, Building Trades

Paul Levin’s Memorial Award: Ethan Conrad, Notre Dame -- Batavia, Building Trades

Batavia Rod & Gun Club Memorial Scholarship: Brandon Lewis, Byron-Bergen CSD, Building Trades

Roy H. Turnbull Memorial Scholarship Award: Kyler Chambry, Byron-Bergen CSD, Building Trades

Ignatius J. Radesi Memorial Award: Benjamin Lathan, Byron-Bergen CSD, Building Trades

Pullinzi Family Scholarship: Christopher Decker, Attica CSD, Building Trades

Building Trades Alumni Award: Joseph Aguglia, Attica CSD, Building Trades

Homeowner Award: Chandler Bow, Byron-Bergen CSD, Building Trades

Jason H. Rowcliffe Memorial Scholarship: Timothy Herter, Attica CSD, Culinary Arts

Chef Russell Bugbee Memorial Award: Hannah Pierson, Le Roy CSD, Culinary Arts

Rochester American Culinary Federation Scholarship: Hannah Pierson, Le Roy CSD, Culinary Arts

Josh Mouery Memorial Award: Danny Pernesky, Le Roy CSD, Culinary Arts

B.J. Mancuso Memorial Award: Taylor Almeter, Attica CSD, Cosmetology

Batavia Rotary Club Memorial Fund Scholarship: Rachel Tebor, Pembroke CSD, Cosmetology

Dr. Charles Holowach Memorial Scholarship: Kim Davis, Pavilion CSD, Health Careers Academy; Paige Perry, Attica CSD, Health Careers Academy; Ethan Hutchins, Notre Dame Batavia, Health Careers Academy.

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The Batavia Career and Technical Education Center is a program of the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership. The Partnership operates as a Board of Cooperative Educational Services offering shared programs and services to 22 component school districts located in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston and Steuben counties in New York State. 

Above is Ethan Hutchins, a 2018 Holowach Scholarship winner, with Julie Donlon, GVEP assistant superintendent.

Submitted photo and press release from the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership:

Le Roy -- Since 1988, the Gary Hammond Golf Tournament has helped to raise funds for the Holowach Memorial Scholarship Fund. To date, more than $112,000 in scholarships have been awarded.

Holowach Scholarships are given annually to assist outstanding career and technical education students with college expenses. The selection process includes written application, teacher recommendations, and a personal interview with the selection committee. Selection criteria includes citizenship, financial need, dedication to and achievement in his/her chosen field.

The Holowach Memorial Scholarship Fund is named for Charles “Chuck” Holowach, Ed.D., who served as the District Superintendent of Livingston-Steuben Wyoming Board of Cooperative Educational Services from March 1982 until his untimely death in December 1988.

The golf tournament is named in honor of Gary Hammond, a retired assistant superintendent for the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership, who served the district for 16 years.

This year’s Genesee County Holowach Scholarship recipients are noted below.

$2,000 -- Batavia CTE Center

Ethan Hutchins is a Health Careers Academy student from Notre Dame who will attend St. John Fisher’s Nursing program. Ethan is a member of the National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, and Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), 4H, and prom committee at his school.

Ethan is also a member of the Notre Dame chorus, and is HOSA Vice President for his class, and secretary for his class at school. He has received numerous awards including Breakfast of Champions, Most Improved-Volleyball, and Scholar Athlete.

$1,500 -- Batavia CTE Center

Paige Perry is from Attica Central Schools and a student in the Health Careers Academy Program. In the fall, she is set to attend Niagara University where she will major in Biology. At her home school, Paige is involved in many activities including Student Government, 4-H, Envirothon, Soccer, Track, Ski Club, Pulse Academy, We Care Club, and Spanish Club. She is a member of National Honor Society and President of the Ski Club.

$1,000 -- Batavia CTE Center

Kim Davis is a Health Careers Academy student from Pavilion Central Schools. She plans to attend Nazareth College and major in Physical Therapy. Kim is active in many sports, clubs, and activities at her home school including soccer, basketball, track, and Girls Service League.

She is a member of National Honor Society, serves as Student Government Class Treasurer, and also serves on Youth Court. dKim has earned many awards and much recognition including Honor Roll, Scholar Athlete, Music Award, MVP-Basketball Tournament, Coaches Award, and the Livingston County Athletic Association All-Star Award.

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The Genesee Valley Educational Partnership, based in Le Roy, operates as a Board of Cooperative Educational Services offering shared programs and services to 22 component school districts located in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston and Steuben counties in New York State.

Press release:

Beginning in the fall of 2018, the Batavia Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center will offer a new career and technical education program, which will be available to high school juniors and seniors.

A Diesel Mechanics Program will help students on their path to becoming college or career ready. The program is made possible through a partnership with Daimler Trucks North America.

Once the facility is completed, there will be a classroom and service bay located at Daimler’s facility next to the Batavia CTE Center on State Street in Batavia.

The Diesel Mechanics Program is a two-year certified program for juniors and seniors who are interested in working with machines in the construction and agriculture industries. Prospective students could also have an interest in auto/diesel machining, trucking, the lawn and garden industry, welding, and the Armed Forces.

"The Diesel Mechanics Program is a welcome addition to the diverse career and technical program offerings available at the Batavia Career and Technical Education Center," said Jon Sanfratello, executive principal, Genesee Valley Educational Partnership Batavia Campus. "Our region has a rich agricultural presence which offers many opportunities for students to be successful upon graduation. By offering this new program, it’s one more way we are providing our students with college and career readiness." 

The program was first introduced at the Mount Morris CTE Center in September and is offered at Marquart Repair and Equipment Sales in Gainesville. Steve Jacoby is the instructor.

Students will work on trucks of varying sizes including, tractors, forklifts, backhoes, bulldozers, lawnmowers, and small engines.

Class work includes small group as well as individual instruction for engine and transmission teardown, and overhaul and failure analysis. The hands-on course work will require students to test and rebuild fuel system components and machine cylinder heads and blocks for rebuilding.

Additional program highlights include heavy-duty preventative maintenance, air and hydraulic brake systems, air conditioning and climate controls, and hydraulic hose and fitting identification.

For more information about the Diesel Mechanics Program contact: Sarah Luczak, Student Services coordinator, Batavia CTE Center at (585) 344-7716 or Jane Rahn, Student Services coordinator, Mount Morris CTE Center at (585) 658-7805.

About the Batavia Career and Technical Education Center

The Batavia Career and Technical Education Center is a program of the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership. The Partnership operates as a Board of Cooperative Educational Services offering shared programs and services to 22 component school districts located in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston and Steuben counties in New York state.

Information provided by Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and Pavilion Central School.

Students at Pavilion Central School are being treated to a delicious BBQ beef lunch on Wednesday, May 23, in recognition of their achievements in the recent Top Cut Beef Contest.

The catered lunch is being provided by the New York State Beef Council and New York Agriculture in the Classroom.

Ag in the Classroom is co-hosting the lunch later this month because Pavilion students established three Tower Gardens (aeroponic systems) thanks to a Grow with Us grant from Ag in the Classroom. They are growing strawberries, lettuce, Swiss chard, tomatoes, basil and cucumbers.

Pavilion's eighth-grade Family Consumer Science students placed first in the Middle School Division of the Top Cut Beef Contest for their product, "Grab-A-Bull's Beefy Sliders."

It was the only school in Genesee County to place in the top five of the Middle School Division.

In the High School Division, Pavilion's 12th-grade Family Consumer Science class placed second for their "Gourmet Beef and Tatar Bites."

Both classes are taught by Catherine Johnston.

Pavilion won a total of $350, thus purchasing a Weber grill for their Family Consumer Science classroom.

A class taught by Kerri Richardson at the Agri-Business Academy at the Batavia Career and Technical Education Center received an Honorable Mention in the High School Division for their "Texas Beef Chili -- Chili con Carne."

About the Top Cut Beef Contest

Slow-roasted beef brisket sandwiches, flaming maple beef jerky, and a Texas chuck roast chili were just a few of the delicious recipes developed, tested, and tasted in the debut of the Top Cut Beef Contest for middle and high school students.

Students and teachers in grades six through 12 were exposed to beef production and nutrition with this experiential learning competition by developing a marketing strategy for a food product of their choice and design.

Every classroom was equipped with a "True Beef: From Pasture to Plate" DVD, the True Beef Educator Guide, lesson plans, and consumer guides to better understand the many cuts of beef and their best uses.

Schools were paired with a local beef producer who mentored the students through the process of beef production or supplied the beef necessary for the project. In this hands-on experience, students were exposed to careers in the beef industry and learned about safe food-handling practices.

Participants created beef-centric recipes which they made and tested with their target audience. Submissions included sandwiches, stews, meatballs, and even jerky.

The creativity with this contest was unlimited as students filmed their own commercials and designed websites to market their products.

One of the judges, Ken Krutz, manager of Empire Livestock and board member of New York Beef Council, said of the entries, "I was amazed at the talent and innovation our youth put into their projects. It was an honor to be a judge for the Top Cut Beef Contest."

A total of 30 entries were submitted for judging by a panel of beef producers and industry experts. Each entry was scored based on the product, the market analysis, the marketing plan, and the beef nutrition analysis.

The first-place classroom in each division received $250, second place earned $100, and third place earned $50; all receive a banner to display their achievement, and the first-place teams, like Pavilion's eighth-graders, are also receiving a catered barbeque lunch from the New York Beef Council.

New York State Beef Council thanked participating schools for increasing the agricultural literacy of their students. "It is our hope that they will grow an appreciation of New York’s food system and gain exposure to the many careers available in agriculture," the council stated.

(To enter your classroom in a future contest, or to volunteer your time as a mentor, please contact nyaitc@cornell.edu.)

Grow With Us Grant

Below is the letter Pavilion Central School teacher Catherine Johnston received from Katie Carpenter, director, New York Agriculture in the Classroom, regarding the Grow with Us Grant.

"Congratulations! You have been selected as a recipient of the Grow with Us Grant from New York Agriculture in the Classroom. Your grant application communicated your school’s need, interest, and commitment to providing healthy food and food system education to your students. The applicant pool for this program was deep and competitive; less than 25 percent of the submitted proposals were funded. You should be proud of your achievement in this difficult selection process.

You have been awarded three Tower Garden aeroponic systems.

Within the next week you will be receiving an emailed link. It will be important for you to thoroughly read the information about accepting the grow system, provide an accurate shipping address, and confirm your contact information. This will be essential to ensuring your grow system is shipped and received in a timely manner. Once this information is received, you will be provided additional information about the shipment of your grow system.

We are excited to work with you and your school as you extend your growing season throughout the entire school year. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. Again, congratulations on your success in the Grow with Us Grant program."

Press release:

Have you ever thought about the role of a school board? Have you considered running for a seat on your school board? The Genesee Valley School Boards Association (GVSBA) will host two informational meetings for community members to learn more about the roles, responsibilities and election process.

These meetings will be held on March 7 at the Charles G. May Center, 27 Lackawanna Ave. in Mount Morris, and March 14 at the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership, 80 Munson St. in Le Roy. Registration is required; please sign up with your school district board clerk by Feb. 16. Both sessions will run from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Pizza will be provided.

It is important for prospective members to understand that, while the board elections are held in May there are timelines regarding filing petitions that must be met. Details regarding this election process will be explained.

GVSBA Executive Director Tom Cox will present this program based on information provided by the New York State School Board Association. It is vital that prospective members understand the roles and responsibilities and expectations of the position of a board member. There are ample resources provided through various sources to help board members learn and grow.

Taking on the responsibility of a school board member is a tremendous way to serve the students and adults of your community. The time commitment is something that will also be outlined in these workshops.

For more information please contact Tom Cox, GVSBA executive director, at tcox@gvboces.org or Sandra Lee James at sljames@gvboces.org

Pictured: Instructional coaches of the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership with Jim Knight, director of the Kansas Coaching Project. (Courtesy of Jim Thompson.)

A new program for the improvement of teaching techniques has begun to take root in the Genesee Valley Boces school districts. The new program connects educators with trained coaches who review video footage of teaching sessions and provide commentary and advice to improve quality and effectiveness.

Jim Thompson, director of Instructional Coaching Services at Genesee Valley Educational Partnership, began installing the program during the 2014 school year. The program has since grown from 10 teachers in its first year, to being used in over nine districts in the area. Jim has worked as the primary coach since its inception, and is currently working on training educators in each district to become coaches themselves.

“We strive for excellent instruction, every day, in every classroom, for every student. That is our true north.” Thompson said, quoting his mentor Jim Knight, director of the Kansas Coaching Project at the University of Kansas.

The program itself involves several stages. First, teachers will meet with coaches, in order to establish goals and develop a positive relationship between them. Next, the teacher submits a 15-20 minute video clip from a teaching session. The coach will then review the video multiple times, implementing time-stamped commentary, concluding with a meeting and review session with both the educator and coach in person.

Thompson emphasized the importance of the teacher-coach relationship in the program, as well as the program’s non-evaluative nature, confidentiality and volunteer basis.

“The program is built on strong relationships and trust. We set up a relationship with teachers which not only generates trust, but also promotes a willingness on the part of both the teacher and coach to reflect on instruction and help improvement.”

One school in which the program has found a receptive home is in the Byron-Bergen district, where superintendent Mickey Edwards has instituted it in both the secondary and elementary levels. As of now, 40 percent of teachers in the school have participated in video coaching, and the school has begun training its own coaches.

“We offer it to teachers to help them improve on their craft and delivery,” Edwards said. “At Byron-Bergen, teachers are not done learning yet.”

Edwards compared the program to the model presented by sports film study, saying that watching yourself teach and seeing what you do well and what you need to improve on – terms which the program refers to as “glows and grows” – is an eye-opening experience.

Diana Walther, an eighth-grade English teacher from the school, is currently being trained as a coach for the district. As an educator who has seen the program from the perspective of a teacher as well as a coach, she claims that it was one of the most effective professional development programs she has been a part of.

“It draws your attention to things you’ve never thought of before,” she said. “Personally, I speak very quickly, so slowing down was something I needed to improve a lot.”

Walther also echoed Jim Thompson’s emphasis on the teacher-coach relationship. “Each session begins by getting to know each other,” Walther said, “in order to identify goals.”

Deborah Slocum, another coach from the Byron-Bergen district, says that her experience in the program also led to her desire to get involved.

“I had an epiphany, it was the most valuable professional reflection I’ve had over the past 24 years of teaching.”

The school has enjoyed the benefits of the program, so much as to implement it into their quarterly evaluation process. Each teacher goes through four annual evaluations, which often include a supervisor sitting in on a class. This option allows teachers to present a video session with a coach as one of their four evaluations.

“This ties into a growth model, where teachers can hone their craft,” Edwards said.

In the future, Edwards hopes to increase the size of the program to include many more coaches within the district.

“I’d like to see one in each content area, and a few at the elementary level.”

The program is in what Edwards referred to as a “fledgling stage,” and it will be evaluated at the end of the school year.