TST BOCES orchestrated a remarkable Community Day, uniting local heroes from diverse sectors within Ithaca's community for an unforgettable learning experience.
Community Day, the second annual event organized by TST Teacher Candice Hough, brought firefighters, police officers, healthcare professionals, and environmental agencies to the campus. The objective was clear: provide students with hands-on interactions with these role models to foster a deeper understanding of their contributions to our community.
The highlight of the event was the interactive sessions led by the local heroes from Tompkins County Sheriff's Office, Ithaca Tompkins International Airport, Bang's Ambulance, Cornell University Police, Cayuga Heights Police Department, Mercy Flight Central, and New York State Environmental Conservation Police.
The event was filled with palpable excitement and engagement from both the students and the local heroes. Students learned from Sergeant Federation and Deputy Haselman of Tompkins County Sheriff's Office about their Specialized Response Vehicle. Students were welcomed onto the Specialized Response Team by getting fitted with vests, helmets, walkie-talkies, and interacting with the robot used in crisis situations.
From Bang's Ambulance, Tyleah Brown, a NYS EMT-B, walked students through her ambulance encouraging students to sit in the stretcher and pointing out the various medical devices that help save lives in emergency situations.
The New York State Environmental Conservation Police sent Officer Scalisi to set up a table, letting students interact with the skull of a black bear, a claw from a Bald Eagle, and a foot from a turkey. Officer Scalisi answered many questions about the Department of Environmental Conservation and educated students on the importance of conserving, improving and protecting New York's natural resources and environment.
The Ithaca Tompkins International Airport Fire Department deployed its 2203 Fire Truck, its primary response vehicle for aircraft rescue and fire fighting. Deputy Fire Chief, Jeremy Puterbaugh, taught students how to operate the extraction tools that the department would use, in case of an emergency, to force entry into aircraft.
A student favorite was Mercy Flight Central's helicopter display. Outreach Specialist and Flight Paramedic, Alfredo Cervantes, along with his wife Danielle, assisted students to be able to climb aboard the once flown helicopter and interact with the flight controls and gears. In the back of the helicopter, students were able to interact with the simulator patient and see the workspace of flight paramedics.
Officers from the Cayuga Heights Police Department and Cornell University Police participated in open and friendly discussions with students, fostering a sense of mutual understanding and community connection.
TST BOCES' Community Day event exemplified how education extends beyond textbooks and classrooms. At the heart of education, lies an interconnected community, one that is at its best when in collaboration between local heroes and aspiring young minds.