Brent Suddaby, Superintendent of Candor CSD
The recent regionalization of our machining and manufacturing program at Candor Central School District exemplifies the power of collaborative, innovative efforts to expand opportunities for students across our region.
For decades, Candor maintained a comprehensive technology program at our Senior High School. Unfortunately, declining enrollment and the availability of alternative programs through TST BOCES CTE courses and TC3’s College Now Program led to fewer in-district students participating. Recognizing the need to adapt, educational leaders from Candor started having conversations with TST BOCES about reimagining our program and opening it up regionally.
It took a visionary approach from outstanding educational leaders to make this program come together. The Candor and TST High School Principals collaborated closely with counselors and curricular leaders throughout the region to develop a program that meets all state requirements for CTE certification and aligns fully with the tenets of a portrait of a graduate. The next hurdle was securing funding and transportation; school business officials worked diligently to ensure the initiative would be financially feasible for the participating districts and BOCES. Transportation challenges were effectively addressed by cooperating transportation departments. All of these combined efforts exemplify how a team of innovative, collaborative problem solvers can make a vision come to fruition.
Even with logistical issues addressed, we knew that getting the right instructors would be essential. The program received a great start thanks to the dedication and expertise of TST’s Jeff Brockway, whose enthusiasm inspires students, and Candor’s newly hired CTE-certified instructor, Ashley Deveney, who is elevating student engagement with her energy and commitment. Candor resident, Mr. Ben Benjamin volunteers his time and skills to fine-tune newer machinery and breathe new life into old machinery, ensuring students have access to the best tools for their learning. The program offers students hands-on training in TIG welding, plasma cutting, lathe and mill operations, and CNC machinery—skills in high demand across manufacturing industries. Additionally, the staff works to form partnerships with local companies to provide invaluable industry insights and internship opportunities, giving students priceless real-world experience early in their education.
The real credit for the program’s success in its first year can be credited to the exceptional students who have chosen to participate. Thanks to their hard work and high achievement, the TST BOCES-run CTE program in manufacturing and machining will expand this fall to welcome 11th and 12th grade students from throughout the Southern Tier. School districts in Tioga, Seneca, Tompkins, Broome and Chemung counties are eligible to participate in this exciting new program.
We are tremendously proud to have this program in Candor. This is regionalization at its best—building partnerships, sharing structures, equipment and staff creates opportunities for all students and strengthens all communities!