AHS CTE News
ALBANY HIGH STUDENTS NOMINATED FOR NATIONAL DISTINCTION
(CSD of Albany Communications Dept: http://www.albanyschools.org/district/communications/DistrictNews/2016-17/AHS.nominees.htm)
ALBANY, N.Y. (Dec. 9, 2016) -- Albany High seniors Jacob Citone and Santos Otero were among the short list of nominees for the 2017 U.S. Presidential Scholars program released Dec. 9 by the New York State Department of Education. Out of all high school seniors across New York State, only 25 had the honor of being nominated for this highly prestigious award. Students are recognized for their outstanding work in academics and the arts, as well as their success in career and technical education programs. Assemblymember Patricia Fahy nominated the students (Fahy is on the left in the photo, with, L-R, Otero, Albany High Acting Principal Dale Getto and Citone). "I could not be more proud to have helped nominate and to see Albany High School students Jacob Citone and Santos Otero recognized as Presidential Scholars nominees," Fahy said. "Jacob is an exceptionally well-rounded student who participates on the varsity tennis and cross country teams, in addition to being a percussionist. Santos, as a third-year career and technical education student, has been diligent in the craft of carpentry and is focused on improving his community. I commend both of these students and wish them success in their future endeavors." Citone was one of 20 Academics and Arts nominees, while Otero was one of only five Career and Technical Education nominees. Each year one young man and one young woman from each state are selected as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students. Through their hard work and dedication, Citone and Otero are now in contention to receive this honor. Congratulations are in order for both as well as Albany High, which provided half of the four Capital Region nominees and was one of only two schools in the state to have multiple students selected.
(CSD of Albany Communications Dept: http://www.albanyschools.org/district/communications/DistrictNews/2016-17/AHS.nominees.htm)
ALBANY, N.Y. (Dec. 9, 2016) -- Albany High seniors Jacob Citone and Santos Otero were among the short list of nominees for the 2017 U.S. Presidential Scholars program released Dec. 9 by the New York State Department of Education. Out of all high school seniors across New York State, only 25 had the honor of being nominated for this highly prestigious award. Students are recognized for their outstanding work in academics and the arts, as well as their success in career and technical education programs. Assemblymember Patricia Fahy nominated the students (Fahy is on the left in the photo, with, L-R, Otero, Albany High Acting Principal Dale Getto and Citone). "I could not be more proud to have helped nominate and to see Albany High School students Jacob Citone and Santos Otero recognized as Presidential Scholars nominees," Fahy said. "Jacob is an exceptionally well-rounded student who participates on the varsity tennis and cross country teams, in addition to being a percussionist. Santos, as a third-year career and technical education student, has been diligent in the craft of carpentry and is focused on improving his community. I commend both of these students and wish them success in their future endeavors." Citone was one of 20 Academics and Arts nominees, while Otero was one of only five Career and Technical Education nominees. Each year one young man and one young woman from each state are selected as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students. Through their hard work and dedication, Citone and Otero are now in contention to receive this honor. Congratulations are in order for both as well as Albany High, which provided half of the four Capital Region nominees and was one of only two schools in the state to have multiple students selected.
STUDENTS COMPETE AT SKILLSUSA LOCAL COMPETITIONS
Do you have what it takes? On March 18, several CTE students competed to test their mettle against students in similar fields from other districts. The local SkillsUSA competition takes place annually at the Stratton Air National Guard Base. Students competed in carpentry, business education, cosmetology, culinary arts and many other CTE pathways. Click here to see a Channel 10 video story and Mr. Morgan.
Do you have what it takes? On March 18, several CTE students competed to test their mettle against students in similar fields from other districts. The local SkillsUSA competition takes place annually at the Stratton Air National Guard Base. Students competed in carpentry, business education, cosmetology, culinary arts and many other CTE pathways. Click here to see a Channel 10 video story and Mr. Morgan.
ROBOTICS CLUB FEATURED ON CHANNEL 13 STEM
By: WNYT Staff
"For the next two weeks, students at Albany High School will be preparing to compete in a competition that works the brain, with a robot doing the heavy lifting..." Click here to be taken directly to the WNYT story.
Video #2:
http://wnyt.com/article/stories/S3741959.shtml?cat=300
Webcasts:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-H74Tgd0GL0hHWQoWmg7b4GMc277JHhG
By: WNYT Staff
"For the next two weeks, students at Albany High School will be preparing to compete in a competition that works the brain, with a robot doing the heavy lifting..." Click here to be taken directly to the WNYT story.
Video #2:
http://wnyt.com/article/stories/S3741959.shtml?cat=300
Webcasts:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-H74Tgd0GL0hHWQoWmg7b4GMc277JHhG
ANNUAL VALENTINE'S SPA DAY FUNDRAISER
The Cosmetology Program will hold its annual Valentine's Spa Day Fundraiser on February 14, from 9 am to 12 pm at the Abrookin Career and Technical Center (ACTC). The money raised is used to help supplement the cost to travel for the International Hair Show in New Jersey. Our students compete at a number of levels. Last year, several trophies were won.Call 475-6412 or visit our District News section for more information.
The Cosmetology Program will hold its annual Valentine's Spa Day Fundraiser on February 14, from 9 am to 12 pm at the Abrookin Career and Technical Center (ACTC). The money raised is used to help supplement the cost to travel for the International Hair Show in New Jersey. Our students compete at a number of levels. Last year, several trophies were won.Call 475-6412 or visit our District News section for more information.
Success in the New Economy
by Brian Y. Marsh
by Brian Y. Marsh
"Citrus College supported the production of “Success in the New Economy” to help a broader audience begin to understand preparation today for tomorrow’s labor market realities. The end result is a compelling case for students to explore career choices early, make informed decisions when declaring their college education goal, and to consider technical skill acquisition, real-world application and academics (career technical programs) in tandem with a classic education. This balanced approach to life and learning results in a well-educated and employed workforce.
Leveraging his expertise in higher education and Career & Technical Education, Kevin Fleming adapted conference presentations and research to create this data-driven explanation. And award winning film creator and producer Brian Y. Marsh brought the data to life through animation."
Leveraging his expertise in higher education and Career & Technical Education, Kevin Fleming adapted conference presentations and research to create this data-driven explanation. And award winning film creator and producer Brian Y. Marsh brought the data to life through animation."
CISCO NETWORKING CELEBRATES 15 YEARS at AHS!
"Congratulations! Abrookin CTC has completed 15 years of active participation and service in the Cisco Networking Academy program. We would like to thank your academy for the dedication and contributions that help make Cisco Networking Academy the premier global education program for developing the networking architects of the future. Barry Davis will receive a certificate commemorating this milestone along with a Years of Service icon next to your academy’s name on the Cisco NetSpace Recognition Program website. Thank you for your continued support and contributions to Cisco Networking Academy’s success." Best regards,Cisco Networking Academy. Click here for more info on courses at AHS.
"Congratulations! Abrookin CTC has completed 15 years of active participation and service in the Cisco Networking Academy program. We would like to thank your academy for the dedication and contributions that help make Cisco Networking Academy the premier global education program for developing the networking architects of the future. Barry Davis will receive a certificate commemorating this milestone along with a Years of Service icon next to your academy’s name on the Cisco NetSpace Recognition Program website. Thank you for your continued support and contributions to Cisco Networking Academy’s success." Best regards,Cisco Networking Academy. Click here for more info on courses at AHS.
CURRICULUM FAIR: WE ARE CTE!
Albany High School hosted its annual Curriculum Information Night for families on Wednesday, November 19. The event allowed students and families to explore course offerings available to students for the 2015-16 school year. CTE was well represented with all ten pathways present and sitting side-by-side.
Albany High School hosted its annual Curriculum Information Night for families on Wednesday, November 19. The event allowed students and families to explore course offerings available to students for the 2015-16 school year. CTE was well represented with all ten pathways present and sitting side-by-side.
NYS BOARD OF REGENTS APPROVES "MULTIPLE PATHWAYS" FOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION!!!"
The New York State Board of Regents approved a ground-breaking initiative that will offer students new opportunities to develop college and career-ready skills in the arts, humanities, CTE and STEM fields. 'Multiple Pathways' will provide technical skills and work-based learning opportunities, paving the way for students to take a rigorous approved exam within a pathway to fulfill part of the Regents examination graduation requirement." Click here for more info.
The New York State Board of Regents approved a ground-breaking initiative that will offer students new opportunities to develop college and career-ready skills in the arts, humanities, CTE and STEM fields. 'Multiple Pathways' will provide technical skills and work-based learning opportunities, paving the way for students to take a rigorous approved exam within a pathway to fulfill part of the Regents examination graduation requirement." Click here for more info.
PATHWAY TO A PAYCHECK: SAN DIEGO PROGRAM TRAINS HIGH SCHOOLERS FOR HEALTH JOBS
BY NONA WILLIS ARONOWITZ
"Sheila Krotz, a former nurse who started working as an administrator at San Ysidro High School nearly a decade ago, saw a way to help fill that gap by creating a pipeline to the medical field for her students.
“It’s a pretty simple concept, really,” she said. “This community needs more bilingual health care workers, so we create the local workforce.”
When a biology teacher quit unexpectedly, Krotz stepped in to pinch-hit, and realized “there wasn’t any direction” in the science curriculum or anybody “looking at long-term outcomes at how to improve [the health of the] community.” So Krotz created the Medical Pathways program, a multi-pronged approach to encourage students to take four years of science and seek out medical training." Click here for full article.
Aronowitz, Nona Willis. "Pathway to a Paycheck: San Diego Program Trains High Schoolers for Health Jobs - NBC News." NBC News. NBC News, 11 Oct. 2014. Web. 14 Oct. 2014. <http://www.nbcnews.com/news/education/pathway-paycheck-san-diego-program-trains-high-schoolers-health-jobs-n222156>.
BY NONA WILLIS ARONOWITZ
"Sheila Krotz, a former nurse who started working as an administrator at San Ysidro High School nearly a decade ago, saw a way to help fill that gap by creating a pipeline to the medical field for her students.
“It’s a pretty simple concept, really,” she said. “This community needs more bilingual health care workers, so we create the local workforce.”
When a biology teacher quit unexpectedly, Krotz stepped in to pinch-hit, and realized “there wasn’t any direction” in the science curriculum or anybody “looking at long-term outcomes at how to improve [the health of the] community.” So Krotz created the Medical Pathways program, a multi-pronged approach to encourage students to take four years of science and seek out medical training." Click here for full article.
Aronowitz, Nona Willis. "Pathway to a Paycheck: San Diego Program Trains High Schoolers for Health Jobs - NBC News." NBC News. NBC News, 11 Oct. 2014. Web. 14 Oct. 2014. <http://www.nbcnews.com/news/education/pathway-paycheck-san-diego-program-trains-high-schoolers-health-jobs-n222156>.
BUDDING ENTREPRENEUR COMPLETES TRAINING
Albany High School senior Camara Lewis knows the meaning of hard work. In addition to graduating from high school, she graduated June 10 from the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA) at the University at Albany.
YEA is a year-long program that teaches middle- and high-school students how to develop, launch and operate their own businesses. Lewis not only was accepted to the competitive program, she won a $1,000 scholarship as well.
The program culminated with Lewis’ plan for her business venture, “Fancy Dough.” The project combined her business savvy with the culinary skills she learned as a student at Albany High's Abrookin Career and Technical Center.
Lewis recently started a job at Taste in downtown Albany, where she will work on special events and learn the ins and outs of the restaurant business.
Albany High School senior Camara Lewis knows the meaning of hard work. In addition to graduating from high school, she graduated June 10 from the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA) at the University at Albany.
YEA is a year-long program that teaches middle- and high-school students how to develop, launch and operate their own businesses. Lewis not only was accepted to the competitive program, she won a $1,000 scholarship as well.
The program culminated with Lewis’ plan for her business venture, “Fancy Dough.” The project combined her business savvy with the culinary skills she learned as a student at Albany High's Abrookin Career and Technical Center.
Lewis recently started a job at Taste in downtown Albany, where she will work on special events and learn the ins and outs of the restaurant business.
CTE TO BE AT CORE OF NEW
AHS BUILDING (2:53)
The City School District of Albany's campaign to design and build a new high school is well underway and CTE is set to be at the core of the new building. The video above describes the need for a new building and the vision. CTE is discussed beginning at the 2:53 mark. Click here to be taken to the school district's official building campaign page.
AHS BUILDING (2:53)
The City School District of Albany's campaign to design and build a new high school is well underway and CTE is set to be at the core of the new building. The video above describes the need for a new building and the vision. CTE is discussed beginning at the 2:53 mark. Click here to be taken to the school district's official building campaign page.
Reimagining the Future of Albany HS & CTE Continues
Q: Will career and technical education (CTE) be part of a new high school?
Will CTE become one of the academies?
A: "Career and technical education in the new high school design should not remain a separate academy but central to each academy and the hub
of the work to be completed. In other words, all of our students, whether by earning certificates or college credit, will participate in CTE education in some fashion. This may include...." Click here to read the FAQs in their entirety.
Will CTE become one of the academies?
A: "Career and technical education in the new high school design should not remain a separate academy but central to each academy and the hub
of the work to be completed. In other words, all of our students, whether by earning certificates or college credit, will participate in CTE education in some fashion. This may include...." Click here to read the FAQs in their entirety.
CHEF MOYER RETIRES: AHS FOODIES MOURN THEIR EMPTY PLATES
At the end of the 2013-2014 school year, Chef Paul Moyer retired after more than 30 years with the CSD of Albany. Thousands of children have passed through his kitchen to learn the basics and advanced techniques of Culinary Arts under his tutelage. Many of them have continued on to culinary school and professions in the field. Members of the community and various businesses are more than familiar with Chef Moyer as he and his students catered events around the Capital District throughout the years. Upon retirement, Chef plans to dedicate more time to his new venture, Old World Farm, where he now lives and grows organic vegetables. Of course, he has vowed to help with the transition to a new Culinary Arts instructor.
President Obama Visits NY CTE High School
President Obama visited P-TECH High School in Brooklyn, New York, on Friday, October 25, 2013. “This country should be doing everything in our power to give more kids the chance to go to schools just like this one,” the president said, referring to the CTE and Early College in the High School programs that P-TECH High School provides. Students at P-TECH can earn an Associate's Degree and the opportunity to directly enter the workforce or continue on to advanced post-secondary studies.
Culinary Arts I Field Trip
Students in Culinary Arts I took an in-class field trip to
Honest Weight Food Co-op on May 22. Nate, a
volunteer and part-owner, gave the students an overview of how a co-op operates and the products that make such a store unique. It was the last week the co-op will be a close neighbor to Abrookin. The new store at 100 Watervliet Avenue opens on June 19.
Honest Weight Food Co-op on May 22. Nate, a
volunteer and part-owner, gave the students an overview of how a co-op operates and the products that make such a store unique. It was the last week the co-op will be a close neighbor to Abrookin. The new store at 100 Watervliet Avenue opens on June 19.
Cosmetology Students Compete & Win Trophies at International Hair & Beauty Show
Ms. Love and Ms. Foy traveled with their students to compete at
the 2013 International Hair and Beauty Show on May 20, at the Meadowlands in Secaucus, NJ. Katrina Murray won overall in the
"Smokey Eye" (aka. makeup) category and Kendra Neal won overall in the eyelash extension category. Both students earned an impressive trophy, a $150 cash prize and over $150 in supplies.
the 2013 International Hair and Beauty Show on May 20, at the Meadowlands in Secaucus, NJ. Katrina Murray won overall in the
"Smokey Eye" (aka. makeup) category and Kendra Neal won overall in the eyelash extension category. Both students earned an impressive trophy, a $150 cash prize and over $150 in supplies.
Ms. Monica Muamba, AMC Nursing Ed Specialist Visits Abrookin
Ms. Monica Muamba, a registered nurse and Nursing Education Specialist with Albany Medical College, visited students in Ms. Vallon-Burgos's
Nursing Assistant Program on March 22, to share her experiences. Ms. Muamba discussed the nursing field and her job duties but more importantly conveyed the importance of pursuing a post-secondary education early in life. Ms. Muamba earned her Masters degree while working full time and raising a family. On top of that, English, is her second language! She further explained that the level of education required for promotions in the nursing field has risen steadily over the last decade.
Nursing Assistant Program on March 22, to share her experiences. Ms. Muamba discussed the nursing field and her job duties but more importantly conveyed the importance of pursuing a post-secondary education early in life. Ms. Muamba earned her Masters degree while working full time and raising a family. On top of that, English, is her second language! She further explained that the level of education required for promotions in the nursing field has risen steadily over the last decade.
CTE Students Compete at the Skills USA Championships
From April 24 -26, 2013, students enrolled in various CTE programs competed at the 47th NY Skills USA Championships in Syracuse, NY.
Student Chef Excels at Skills USA Regional Competition
Albany High School senior Jessica Penny’s finesse with food
earned her a third-place medal Wednesday at a regional SkillsUSA competition and a berth at the upcoming state-level competition.Click here to read more on the district website.
earned her a third-place medal Wednesday at a regional SkillsUSA competition and a berth at the upcoming state-level competition.Click here to read more on the district website.
Albany High School Community Dinner
The Culinary Arts program presented a community dinner on Wednesday, April 17, 2013, at the Abrookin Career & Technical Center. Over 60 guests attended the fundraiser. It was a chance to eat with friends and support the Culinary Arts Program as the students prepare to compete in the annual National Skills USA competition in Syracuse, NY. All proceeds are being used to defray the cost of attending the competition. If you have ever attended an event catered by the Culinary Arts Program then you know you are always in for a treat and this night was no different as the students prepared a wonderful meal from scratch under the guidance of Chef Moyer and Chef Valentine. Click here to see the menu.
"Aye Sir!"
Mr. Fesel had the opportunity to attend the Marine
Corps Educator's Worshop from March 12-15, 2013, (make
that starting at 2:45am on 3/12) held at the USMC Recruit Depot on Parris Island, SC. The workshop provides educators with a prime opportunity to experience recruit training and have a better understanding of what young men and women from their schools endure to earn the title Marine. Brigadier General Lori Reynolds , the commanding officer on Parris Island, explained that the USMC is not looking for educators to be additional recruiters. In fact, the USMC is currently experiencing the highest caliber of recruits they have ever seen.
During each workshop, educators witness first-hand the rigors of Marine Corps basic
training, its methods and the culture behind being one of the world's most elite military organizations. Educators have the opportunity to speak with recruits and Marines in a myriad of occupational titles. In addition, educators experience a recruit's first introduction to a drill instructor during a simulation at recruit reception. (Picture: Mr. Fesel rappels down the 60-foot training tower.)
Corps Educator's Worshop from March 12-15, 2013, (make
that starting at 2:45am on 3/12) held at the USMC Recruit Depot on Parris Island, SC. The workshop provides educators with a prime opportunity to experience recruit training and have a better understanding of what young men and women from their schools endure to earn the title Marine. Brigadier General Lori Reynolds , the commanding officer on Parris Island, explained that the USMC is not looking for educators to be additional recruiters. In fact, the USMC is currently experiencing the highest caliber of recruits they have ever seen.
During each workshop, educators witness first-hand the rigors of Marine Corps basic
training, its methods and the culture behind being one of the world's most elite military organizations. Educators have the opportunity to speak with recruits and Marines in a myriad of occupational titles. In addition, educators experience a recruit's first introduction to a drill instructor during a simulation at recruit reception. (Picture: Mr. Fesel rappels down the 60-foot training tower.)
Mr. Phil Stein, Co-Owner of Pepper Jacks, Visits Abrookin
Phil Stein, co-owner of Pepper Jacks on N. Allen St., visited with students of the Culinary Arts Program on February 12, to discuss his business and business management in general. Mr. Stein covered everything from the hiring and retaining of quality employees to the costs of health insurance. This Spring, Pepper Jacks will host students of the Culinary Arts Program for work based learning experiences.
Career Fair Big Success! Next Year: Feb. 5, 2014
555 students and 44 organizations from both the public and
private sectors attended the career fair on February 6. Of the 555 students, 22 joined us from our three middle schools. Students learned about the ins and outs of occupations they were familiar with and were introduced to some occupations they never knew existed. Once again the AHS Culinary Arts Program catered the event to the delight of the organizational reps attending. A number
of organizations that attended and some that couldn't make it have offered to establish a continuing relationship with AHS. Mark your calendars for next year's career fair on February 5, 2014. Click here to see photos from the day.
private sectors attended the career fair on February 6. Of the 555 students, 22 joined us from our three middle schools. Students learned about the ins and outs of occupations they were familiar with and were introduced to some occupations they never knew existed. Once again the AHS Culinary Arts Program catered the event to the delight of the organizational reps attending. A number
of organizations that attended and some that couldn't make it have offered to establish a continuing relationship with AHS. Mark your calendars for next year's career fair on February 5, 2014. Click here to see photos from the day.
Car Project A Smashing Good Lesson
Students in the Auto Tech Program at Albany High School had the chance to enter a "crush car" into the Monster Jam on January 18, at the Times Union Center. Mr. Graham and Mr. Fesel chaperoned a contingent of students on a special tour of the arena floor where they had the chance to speak to drivers and the pit crew. Click here to read the Times Union article.
Local Baker Offers Specialized Training to Students
On January 31, Donna Fesel of Clara May Cakes visited the Culinary Arts Program to offer specialized training in cake decorating. The students are preparing for their Skills USA competition and were looking for pointers on writing, making flowers and creating boarders with buttercream and pastry bags. Both Mrs. Fesel and students had a good time. Mrs. Fesel plans to return for a second class to work with students specializing in baking and pastry.
Check This Menu Out!
Few people enjoy standing for long hours and running around while under lots of pressure. The same cannot be said for students in the Culinary Arts Program who thrive under such conditions.
On January 14, the Culinary Arts Program hosted a meeting of the Capital Region Chapter of the American Culinary Federation. Fifteen students and three culinary instructors toiled away into the night to ensure 20 members of the ACF enjoyed a meal worthy of any top-notch restaurant. Click here to see the menu but try not to drool.
On January 14, the Culinary Arts Program hosted a meeting of the Capital Region Chapter of the American Culinary Federation. Fifteen students and three culinary instructors toiled away into the night to ensure 20 members of the ACF enjoyed a meal worthy of any top-notch restaurant. Click here to see the menu but try not to drool.
AHS Nanoscale Program Featured in Video Aired to Over 8,000 Middle and High Schools Across the US
A video segment produced by CBS features the CNSE-Albany High School “NanoHigh” program. The piece aired on Channel One News, a 12-minute daily news program for teens broadcast via satellite to 6 million students in 8,000 middle and high schools across the United States. Click here to see the video.
Abrookin Adjusts Name to Match Aim
A new name this year and new courses being added next year are symbolic of the expanded opportunities available to students at Albany High School’s Abrookin Career and Technical Center. Located two blocks north of Albany High, Abrookin has long been home to a range of traditional trades programs like automotive technology, cosmetology, carpentry and culinary arts. (At right, Adriana Degennaro, a student in the Culinary Arts program, adds a dash of salt to a confection she prepares as part of her training.)
Starting next year, those offerings will expand to include 21st-century careers like
forensic science, homeland security, green technology and three-dimensional digital
design. Many of the courses will lead to college credit. Current and future Abrookin program offerings are designed to prepare students for career, college or both,
according to Assistant Principal Bryan Cartwright. That expanded focus led to a name change this fall for the district’s former vocational-technical center. “Changing the
name more accurately reflects the vision we have for our students,” Cartwright said.
The building, located at 99 Kent Street, is named after Emanuel “Manny” Abrookin, a longtime Albany school board member and advocate of career education. The
tradition of career training for students in Albany’s public schools dates to the first decades of the 20th century. The former Albany Occupational Center opened in 1974, coinciding with Albany High’s move to its current location (and consolidation with the former Philip Schuyler High School).
The Board of Education renamed the vocational-technical center in Abrookin’s honor
in 1994. Administrators and staff determine program offerings at Abrookin by looking at
local and national employment trends, job growth statistics and other economic
indicators, with an eye toward giving students marketable skills that qualify them for entry-level jobs, college or apprenticeships. Abrookin also partners with numerous local businesses and organizations to give students hands-on training with the pros. For
example, students in the emergency medical technician program learn from and ride alongside Albany Fire Department paramedics. Students that successfully complete the program are ready to take the state test to certify them as EMTs.
Moreover, Abrookin’s expanded offerings also are connected to the ongoing development of the themes for each of Albany High’s four new academies: Citizenship, Discovery, Leadership and Innovation. And starting next fall, freshmen in each academy will have the option to choose a year-long program at Abrookin to explore different college and career options. "There’s so much that the career and technical education
programs can do for our students, our community and our city,” Cartwright said. “They’re very real-world, very relevant. “When kids know that, it will help with their attendance, their focus and their grades.”
Source: Capital Education. Published by the City School District of Albany. Fall 2012.
Click here to access pdf version of the publication.
Starting next year, those offerings will expand to include 21st-century careers like
forensic science, homeland security, green technology and three-dimensional digital
design. Many of the courses will lead to college credit. Current and future Abrookin program offerings are designed to prepare students for career, college or both,
according to Assistant Principal Bryan Cartwright. That expanded focus led to a name change this fall for the district’s former vocational-technical center. “Changing the
name more accurately reflects the vision we have for our students,” Cartwright said.
The building, located at 99 Kent Street, is named after Emanuel “Manny” Abrookin, a longtime Albany school board member and advocate of career education. The
tradition of career training for students in Albany’s public schools dates to the first decades of the 20th century. The former Albany Occupational Center opened in 1974, coinciding with Albany High’s move to its current location (and consolidation with the former Philip Schuyler High School).
The Board of Education renamed the vocational-technical center in Abrookin’s honor
in 1994. Administrators and staff determine program offerings at Abrookin by looking at
local and national employment trends, job growth statistics and other economic
indicators, with an eye toward giving students marketable skills that qualify them for entry-level jobs, college or apprenticeships. Abrookin also partners with numerous local businesses and organizations to give students hands-on training with the pros. For
example, students in the emergency medical technician program learn from and ride alongside Albany Fire Department paramedics. Students that successfully complete the program are ready to take the state test to certify them as EMTs.
Moreover, Abrookin’s expanded offerings also are connected to the ongoing development of the themes for each of Albany High’s four new academies: Citizenship, Discovery, Leadership and Innovation. And starting next fall, freshmen in each academy will have the option to choose a year-long program at Abrookin to explore different college and career options. "There’s so much that the career and technical education
programs can do for our students, our community and our city,” Cartwright said. “They’re very real-world, very relevant. “When kids know that, it will help with their attendance, their focus and their grades.”
Source: Capital Education. Published by the City School District of Albany. Fall 2012.
Click here to access pdf version of the publication.
Albany Teen Honored
by the City
Published 12/20/2011
Seventeen-year-old Dakota Kwiatkowski always wanted to be a firefighter and as a member of the Albany Fire Department's "Explorer Program," he got to take that career for a test drive.
"I remember my first ride time like it was just yesterday. I walked into the firehouse and they treat you like family," Kwiatkowski said. "It gave me that opportunity to jump on and get the hands on experience to see what it's like. When you get to some of these calls and see the distress they're in, you just automatically want to help out."
The department started its Explorer Program in 2010, as part of its recruitment and retention effort. It allows teens from the city to train in a real life setting.
"The look that people get when we put on the uniform as teenagers is this kids doing something to change the community," Kwiatkowski said. "Makes me feel proud to be part of a brotherhood."
On Tuesday, Dakota stood before those members of engine one and accepted an international award for his work in the program and a scholarship for 500 dollars.
"He's got dedication, he's got commitment, he's a sharp student and he wants to be a firefighter," said Chief Robert Forezzi.
"Definitely," Kwiatkowski said. "I'll keep going until I can get it."
Reference: Fox23news.com: http://www.fox23news.com/news/local/story/Albany-teen-honored-by-the-city/-qj672VUp0qNnSyr9oB_nA.cspx .
Seventeen-year-old Dakota Kwiatkowski always wanted to be a firefighter and as a member of the Albany Fire Department's "Explorer Program," he got to take that career for a test drive.
"I remember my first ride time like it was just yesterday. I walked into the firehouse and they treat you like family," Kwiatkowski said. "It gave me that opportunity to jump on and get the hands on experience to see what it's like. When you get to some of these calls and see the distress they're in, you just automatically want to help out."
The department started its Explorer Program in 2010, as part of its recruitment and retention effort. It allows teens from the city to train in a real life setting.
"The look that people get when we put on the uniform as teenagers is this kids doing something to change the community," Kwiatkowski said. "Makes me feel proud to be part of a brotherhood."
On Tuesday, Dakota stood before those members of engine one and accepted an international award for his work in the program and a scholarship for 500 dollars.
"He's got dedication, he's got commitment, he's a sharp student and he wants to be a firefighter," said Chief Robert Forezzi.
"Definitely," Kwiatkowski said. "I'll keep going until I can get it."
Reference: Fox23news.com: http://www.fox23news.com/news/local/story/Albany-teen-honored-by-the-city/-qj672VUp0qNnSyr9oB_nA.cspx .