Wildwood Campus has received a Quality Chapter Award for the successful completion of the SkillsUSA Chapter Excellence Program, shown above. More on page 5.
Check out our celebrations page, where we honor the successes of our students and staff.
675+ Free Haircuts and Counting
We’re thrilled to share an update on our free haircut initiative at Bush Campus, now in its third year! So far this school year, our talented students have provided more than 675 haircuts—saving families an estimated $10,000 based on local pricing.
This year, with students now able to drive, we’ve expanded our reach to all Elmira City elementary schools and just added our first middle school partner: EDA. We’ve grown from 7 to 12 partner schools across Elmira, Elmira Heights and Horseheads districts.
We’re proud of the impact our students are making—one haircut at a time!
Dear GST BOCES Region,
We are proud to share that all 21 component boards have unanimously voted in favor of the GST BOCES budget. In a time when schools across the region face financial challenges, this collective decision reflects the deep commitment of our educational community to prioritize student success and service excellence.
This vote is more than just a formality—it is a powerful testament to our region’s shared vision. Thanks to this unified support, we remain poised to deliver the high-quality services our districts rely on and our students deserve.
Collaboration is at the heart of progress. With continued partnership among BOCES and all component districts, we are confident that our students will not only persevere—but thrive. We extend our sincere appreciation to every board of education and leader who made this possible. Together, we are building a stronger future.
Respectfully,
Messages from our District Superintendent LEADERSHIP
Stacy Saglibene
From our Deputy Superintendent, Sarah Vakkas
You Spoke. We’re Listening.
688 of 850 participants — an 80% response rate — shared their insight in a staff-wide survey. Thank you.
Top areas you want us to explore:
• Leadership Development
• Effective Communication
• Tailored Professional Development
• Sense of Belonging
• Resource Allocation
• Physical Workplace Environment Your voices matter. Your impact is real.
Poem of appreciation below:
In the heart of GST BOCES, where teamwork thrives, We hear your voices, your thoughts, your drives.
From the fine instructional staff to the Special Ed crew, Your dedication shines brightly, in all that you do. With collaboration and communication, we stand as one, Supporting each student, till the work is done. Your feedback is valued, your words are sent, From creative solutions to a loving environment. To the teachers, the staff, and the leaders so grand, Your efforts are seen, and we understand. Together we’ll grow, innovate, and strive, For a future where all our students will thrive!
What’s next:
Department-level communications and targeted feedback follow-up are on the way. More opportunities to share and shape our future—coming soon.
Crucial Conversations Book Study
The big picture: 70+ participants are joining forces across GST BOCES departments to explore how to handle high-stakes conversations with confidence, clarity and care.
Why it matters:
Avoiding tough conversations can damage trust and stall progress. This book gives us tools to speak up—without blowing up.
Key learnings:
• Safety first: If people don’t feel safe, conversations go nowhere.
• STATE your path: Share facts, tell your story, ask for others’ views.
• Listen better: Use AMPP—Ask, Mirror, Paraphrase, Prime.
Real talk:
• “This changed how I lead my team.”
• “I stopped avoiding hard conversations—and got better outcomes.”
• “It built trust, fast.”
What’s next:
• We’re planning to explore:
• Follow-up workshops
• Individualized department trainings
• Additional crucial conversation book study session this summer
Insider Highlights Regional Leaders
K-12 Cybersecurity Takes Center Stage in Albany
What’s new:
The 2025 RIC ONE Data Privacy and Security Service (DPSS) Conference drew K-12 data leaders, educators and cybersecurity pros to Albany on March 26-27.
Why it matters:
As data threats grow, New York schools are doubling down on protecting student information. This statewide event tackled real-world risks with actionable solutions.
The details:
• Hosted at the Albany Marriott, the conference spotlighted:
• New Data Protection Officer Bootcamp
• Incident response and recovery strategies
• NYSED’s latest review tools
• NIST Framework implementation tips
• Regional Information Centers (RICs) played a key role, sharing best practices and tools like the RIC ONE Data Privacy Inventory.
The big takeaway:
Proactive planning + collaboration = stronger student data safeguards.
Districts left with new insights, practical tools and stronger networks to take on the evolving cybersecurity landscape.
What’s next:
Continued cross-district collaboration will be key to building a culture of security in every classroom.
What does integrity mean to you?
Being honest and true to yourself and others. Doing the right thing when other people are not looking.
Abigail R. Alternative Education Program
Careers at GST BOCES
Interested in a Career at GST BOCES? Our Hiring Interest Form allows you to list your skillset and let us help match you to an open position.
A Day of Connection and Collaboration
Big picture:
On March 24, 2025, the GST BOCES Regional School Counselors Summit brought together more than 100 mental health professionals and 13 community agencies - uniting voices, resources and purpose.
Why it matters:
Students thrive when schools and communities work as one. This summit was all about strengthening those bonds.
What happened:
Location: Corning Radisson
Keynote: Jeannie Gainsburg, LGBTQ+ inclusion expert, energized the day with insights on allyship.
Topics: Substance abuse trends, student mental health, and access to support services took center stage.
Midday Meetup: A community agency fair during lunch fostered powerful connections.
By the numbers:
• 100+ counselors, social workers and psychologists
• 13 partner agencies
• 1 shared goal: supporting students, together
Zoom out:
This summit is a shining example of GST BOCES Community Schools programming in actioncollaborative, intentional and student-centered.
What’s next:
• More conversations.
• Stronger partnerships.
• Better outcomes.
National Technical Honor Society
Addison
Alex Boutelle, Cosmetology
Trisha Dailey, Cosmetology
Marissa Frawley, Cosmetology
Ranae Ketrow, Automotive Technology
Natonya Oakley, Culinary Arts
Kayleigh Rupp, Criminal Justice
Alfred-Almond
Jacob Corey Bornschein, Culinary Arts
James Ruthven, Building Construction
Alison Wojtkowiak, NV Health
Arkport
Brennan Bordeaux, Heavy Equipment
Andrew Colsrud, Heavy Equipment
Bryer Drake, Heavy Equipment
Bradford
Cheyanne Grandall, NV ILB
Makena Hallock, Cosmetology
Sean Ryan, CISCO Networking Academy
David Spangenberg, Digital Media Arts
Campbell-Savona
Adrien Akins, Culinary Arts
Trevor Allington, Heavy Equipment
Noah Brooks, Precision Machining
Colin Button, Precision Machining
Crisandy Evangelista, Culinary Arts
Liliana French, Nurse Assisting
Recognitions and Celebrations PROUD TO BE GST
Richard Flaitz, NV Health
Bryn Friends, NV Health
Morgan Gilbert, NV Health
Chloee Henshaw, NV Health
Gabriella Holbrook, Heavy Equipment
Payton, O’Dell, NV Health
Conor Smith, Building Construction
Madison Smith, NV Health
Mary Young, NV Health
Avoca
Peyton Barros-Clymo, Heavy Equipment
Elise Harrell, NV Health
Justin Palmer, Heavy Equipment
Karter Payne, Building Construction
Cenna Skinkle-Storm, Cosmetology
Braelyn Westbrook, Cosmetology
Bath
Pieter Barrett, NV Health
Lola Coots, NV Health
Leah Crosson, Cosmetology
Katelynn, DuBois, NV Health
Christy Farr, Culinary Arts
Linsey Haff, NV Health
Danica Havens, Animal Science
Hannah Havens, Heavy Equipment
Graydon Harding, CISCO Networking Academy
Mason Harper, Automotive Technology
Bryce Harris, Collision Repair/Refinishing Tech
Lillyana Hayes, NV Health
Kali Oman, NV ILB
Canaseraga
Rylie Kenyon, NV Health
Gina Price, NV Human Services
Carson Robinson, CISCO Networking Academy
Anson Thompson, Digital Media Arts
Alexzander Vilkhu, NV Health
Canisteo-Greenwood
Jaxson Casterline, Digital Media Arts
Brody DeLeon, Digital Media Arts
Dominic Dennis, Heavy Equipment
Claudia France, NV Health
Ariel Houghtaling, NV Human Services
Seth Palmer, Heavy Equipment
Dominick Sekoll Tomb, Heavy Equipment
Dorrance Warren, CISCO Networking Academy
Corning-Painted Post
Reilly Anderson, Audio Media
Kristopher Bacon, CISCO Networking Academy
Victoria Beckwith-Strong, Fashion Design, Merch, Marketing
Silvana Bilcari, NV Health
Morgan Brady, Dental Assisting
Hayden Buckley, Digital Media Arts
Alayah Buman, NV Health
Recognitions and Celebrations
National Technical Honor Society
Elmira Heights
Emily Aiello, NV Innovation, Leadership, Business
Allyson Balash, NV Human Services and Education
Maycie Bennett, NV Human Services and Education
Garrett Davis, Automotive Technology
Mayla Falank, NV Human Services and Education
Maya Kingsley, Early Childhood
Shay Law, Early Childhood
Reyes McAtee, Building Construction
Isabella Moffe, NV Health Careers Exploration
Jazlyn Nichols, NV Human Services and Education
Ashlynn Osborn, Cosmetology
Reagan Peris, NV Innovation, Leadership, Business
Horseheads
Karis Adams, NV Human Services and Education
Jessica Als, NV Health Careers Exploration
Ian Balster, Automotive Technology
Jack Benton, NV Human Services and Education
Alyssa Carlson, Cosmetology
Benjamin Church, NV Innovation, Leadership, Business
Carlo Cipolla, NV Health Careers Exploration
Michael Colon, Digital Media Arts
Ryan Colvin, Conservation
Haley Comfort, NV Human Services and Education
Kaylyn Cook, NV Human Services and Education
Rhiannon Costley, Cosmetology
Kaleb Podoliak, NV Innovation, Leadership, Business
Kailey Ripley, NV Human Services and Education
Hammondsport
Zoey Christensen, Automotive Technology
Austin Hurlburt, Building Construction
Nevaeh Mills, Collision Repair/Refinishing Tech
Mason Williams, Building Construction
Hornell
Izaiah Adams, Automotive Technology
Sierra Carrington, Digital Media Arts
Sarina Chace, Cosmetology
Madyson Conner, NV Health
Rowan Diaz-Wing, Culinary Arts
Rylan Diaz-Wing, Culinary Arts
Chloe Harwood, NV Health
Kirsten Davis, NV Health Careers Exploration
Alexandra Drake, Dental Assisting
Ethan Dziennik, Building Construction
Amelia Ellison, NV Health Careers Exploration
Jack Fesetch, NV Innovation, Leadership, Business
Arianna Fuksman, NV Human Services and Education
Rebecca Fullmer, Cosmetology
Thalia Garcia, Nurse Assisting
Olivia Gavin, NV Health Careers Exploration
Rachel Holbrook, Professional Business Financial Tech
Lillian Hoyt, NV Health
Ryah Hutcheson, Cosmetology
Alexandria Morris, Digital Media Arts
Madison Rudenauer, NV Health
Max Stephens, Digital Media Arts
Enrique Valle, Digital Media Arts
Conner Weitzel, Animal Science
MacKenzie Grover, NV Health Careers Exploration
Carley Hansen, Cosmetology
Tori Harley, Cosmetology
Noelle Harpster, NV Health Careers Exploration
Christian Headley, Automotive Technology
Kael Herbitter, Digital Media Arts
Andrew Hollenbeck, Building Construction
Paige Janowski, Early Childhood
Anika Kamaraju, NV Health Careers Exploration
Liam Kane, NV Human Services and Education
Zachery Kathan, Building Construction
Reilly Kelly, Conservation
Michelle Koester, Culinary Arts
Elise Levantovich, NV Human Services and Education
Sibby Lowe, NV Human Services and Education
Jordyn Lunger, NV Human Services and Education
Amanda McLaughlin, NV Innovation, Leadership, Business
Danika Morehouse, NV Health Careers Exploration
Brennan Murray, Dental Assisting
Devon Northrup, Conservation
Emma O’Harra, Conservation
Tabitha Oakes, Cosmetology
Drew Parsons, Building Construction
Recognitions and Celebrations
National Technical Honor Society
Horseheads Continued
Aric Paul, Automotive Technology
Mia Ruggiero, NV Health Careers Exploration
Allison Ruhmel, NV Human Services and Education
Annalee Ruhmel, NV Human Services and Education
Camdyn Ryhal, Conservation
Sidney Sanders, Nurse Assisting
Chase Schermerhorn, Audio Media
Leah Scott, NV Human Services and Education
Jordan Sheehan, NV Innovation, Leadership, Business
Gracie Sherman, NV Health Careers Exploration
Chace Sherwood, Conservation
Caitlyn Slavin, NV Health Careers Exploration
Lilian Snowburg, Audio Media
Raegan Stevens, NV Health Careers Exploration
Griffin Stevens, NV Innovation, Leadership, Business
Devin Sullivan, NV Innovation, Leadership, Business
Joanne Tiberia, NV Human Services and Education
Ethan Timerman, Digital Media Arts
Lauren Tournour, NV Health Careers Exploration
Lillian Walton, Cosmetology
James Waters IV, Conservation
Jack West, Diesel Equipment Tech, Maintenance, Repair
Kaylee Williams, Dental Assisting
Natalie Williams, NV Health Careers Exploration
Megan Wolf, NV Health Careers Exploration
Logan Woodrow, Animal Science
Braden Woodworth, NV Innovation, Leadership, Business
Jasper-Troupsburg
Victoria Allington, Welding
Chloe Anthony, NV Health
Nolan Barney, Heavy Equipment
Miles Brush, Heavy Equipment
Tristen Carney, Nurse Assisting
Taigen Dempsey, Automotive Technology
Odessa-Montour
Prattsburgh
Camryn Moore, NV ILB
Spencer-Van Etten
Wayne Chandler III, Collision Repair/Refinishing Tech
Kaylee-May Davidson, Audio Media
Lilyanah Doolittle, NV Health Careers Exploration
Autumn Kenville, Digital Media Arts
Lily Kunzman, NV Health Careers Exploration
Christopher Merrick, Conservation
Oskar Secondo, Digital Media Arts
Twin Tiers Christian Academy
Abigail Lockwood, Early Childhood
Watkins Glen
Axel Alger, Digital Media Arts
Brady Bockelkamp, NV Health Careers Exploration
Madaline Bryerton, Criminal Justice
Nicholas D’Alleva, NV Innovation, Leadership, Business
Draco Del Toro, NV Innovation, Leadership, Business
Did you attend a GST, SCT or SA BOCES program? We want to hear how BOCES made a difference in your life and led you down the road to success. Please take a moment to fill out the survey linked to the QR code so that we can inspire others and celebrate with you. Hear from an alumnus below.
GST BOCES Was Taylor’s Launchpad to Career Success.
Graduating from the Audio Media Design program at BOCES in 2014 gave Taylor a major head start. The hands-on experience helped him excel in college, where he graduated at the top of his class and received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award in 2016.
BOCES opened doors to internships and freelance work at Madison Square Garden, leading to a full-time job right after college. Since then, he built a rewarding career with top Rochester companies such as L3Harris and Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.
“I’m truly grateful—BOCES was the foundation for everything that came next.”
Inside Story From a Student
Why did you choose GST BOCES STEM Academy? I chose STEM Academy to benefit my education, using a more hands on, collaborative team to help benefit myself and others.
How has GST BOCES positively impacted you so far?
STEM has a small staff with unlimited resources to help you personally and educationally. The smaller classes sizes increase teamwork and productivity. STEM prepares you for the higher expectations of college work and teaches you self-management skills needed to succeed.
What opportunities have you taken advantage of?
I participate in Drone Soccer. We are going to Nationals, which will be the second time we have traveled to compete this year. I walk with STEM on our Walk A Mile team. I have presented during spotlight nights and open houses for prospective students.
I am a mentor for younger students. I have attended career experiences to decide which path I want to take in healthcare. I worked on our cardboard boat regatta team.
What are your future plans?
My path through STEM will be six years to complete my high school diploma and my nursing degree. After STEM I will transfer to a SUNY school to earn my bachelor’s degree. My end goal is to be a travel nurse. I don’t think this would have been possible, without STEM. The financial support and the focused education on career readiness have helped me be prepared for college at such an early age.
- Kelci W.
Alumni CTE Hall of Fame
The purpose is to recognize the personal achievements of former GST BOCES CTE students who demonstrated an understandable connection between their BOCES experience and career choice achievements.
Eligibility: Anyone who has successfully completed a Career and Technical Education Program is eligible for the CTE Hall of Fame. Applicants are eligible after the sixth year following their program completion.
The application deadline for this year is May 15, 2025.
Canisteo Cemetery Project
Parents, Community and Alumni
Coopers Campus Students
Build Dugout for Bradford
Adult Education Opportunities
Barbering is a 600-hour adult education program designed to prepare students for a career in the appearance and enhancement field.
Hours: 600 hrs.
Days/Times: Tues - Thurs: 9:00am-2:00pm
Tuition: $9,400 + $100 enrollment fee
Location: Baldwin Campus Ext.
Upcoming Dates: August 19, 2025-June 11, 2026
Students in the Building Construction class at Coopers Campus put their skills to work outside the classroom by building a new dugout for the Bradford School athletic field.
The project gives students hands-on experience in design, planning and construction, while also supporting school sports. It’s part of our commitment to real-world learning and community engagement.
Classes follow the New York State approved curriculum required for taking state licensing exams. The Barbering Program offers students the opportunity to practice their skills during regular classes and clinics.
Use this QR code for more information on barbering or other adult education opportunity.
Adult Education Students Honored at NYACCE Conference
Two remarkable students from GST BOCES Adult Education programs have been selected for recognition at the 2025 New York Association for Continuing and Community Education (NYACCE) conference in Albany, celebrating their resilience and achievement in the face of adversity.
Tanzania Page overcame homelessness, loss and personal hardship to earn her High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma. She continued her journey by becoming a certified Nurse Aide, working as a Teacher’s Aide at GST BOCES, and enrolling in college to study criminal justice. Nominated by instructor Samantha Cavallaro, Tanzania is now the first in her family to attend college and is dedicated to advocating for others.
Brayden Lower turned his life around after being expelled from high school and placed on probation. Through hard work, he earned his HSE diploma, joined the GST BOCES Welding program, and found employment—all while overcoming personal obstacles and lack of support. Brayden’s story is one of persistence and personal growth.
Both students were honored, along with GST BOCES literacy staff, at the NYACCE conference in April.
Business and Industry Corner
Business and Industry
Signing Event
GST BOCES is excited to host one signing day per campus to recognize the value of skilled trades for our students who have accepted post-graduation employment in their trade of study with your business.
Our event dates have changed!
June 12 at Wildwood Campus
June 13 at Coopers Campus
June 16 at Bush Campus
Please notify GST BOCES using the QR code above if you intend to hire a student prior to June 2, 2025.
Rick Perkins, Business and Industry Liaison, will reach out to your business with an invitation and specific details prior to the event.
COLLABORATION
GST Gives Back in Big Ways
GST BOCES students and staff have been making a meaningful impact through a wide range of community service projects and charitable initiatives during the 2024–2025 school year. From volunteering time to offering essential services and donating goods, their dedication to giving back is clear.
Students participated in the Cornell Elves Holiday Program and in the Backpack Program, contributing gifts and school supplies to children in need. SkillsUSA students played a pivotal role, organizing food drives for local pantries, hosting a “Give Back Day” where they donated books to elementary schools, and preparing holiday meals for struggling families.
GST BOCES Cosmetology students made a powerful difference by offering free haircuts and grooming to ARC clients, special education classrooms and the community, building confidence and providing much-needed support. Students also served meals, decorated holiday bags for Meals on Wheels, and shadowed professionals through BOCES programs to explore career pathways.
Volunteers supported vital organizations such as Catholic Charities, Arctic League and Salvation Army, while some students took civic engagement further by working elections and cleaning up flood-damaged cemeteries.
Partnerships
Together, these efforts reflect the spirit of service that defines GST BOCES - empowering students to lead, care and give back to their communities in powerful, lasting ways.
We are grateful for the business and industry partners in our region. From donating supplies to our programs, to interviewing our students, to offering internship opportunities, our partnerships are a priority.
Whether you are a long-time partner or you have never connected with us, please take a moment to fill out the informational questionnaire so that we can improve our partnership opportunities for both your business and our students.
