TST BOCES is bringing a new opportunity to adult learners across the Tompkins-Seneca-Tioga region with the launch of a full-time Practical Nursing (PN) Program.
Designed to prepare students for careers as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), the program also helps address a growing need for skilled healthcare professionals right here in our community.
Open to individuals age 17 and older who have earned a high school diploma or GED, the program creates a clear and accessible pathway into the nursing field.
Years in the making, the program expands access to nursing careers for adult learners in the TST region. Developed in partnership with regional healthcare providers, including Cayuga Medical Center, it reflects years of collaboration and a rigorous New York State approval process to ensure it meets the highest standards for nursing education.
“This program has been a long time coming,” said Cindy Walter, Assistant Superintendent for Instructional and Career Services. “We’ve worked closely with our partners and the state to build something that not only meets workforce demands, but truly supports adult learners in entering a meaningful, high-impact career right here in our region.”
The ten-month program will begin in Spring 2026 and runs Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Classes will be held at Cayuga Medical Center’s space at the Shops at Ithaca Mall, with clinical rotations taking place at healthcare sites throughout the region.
Instruction blends classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience, giving students the opportunity to build both the technical skills and real-world confidence needed to step into the field.
“This is about creating opportunity and meeting a real need,” said Joseph Palladino, Administrator for Adult Education. “Healthcare providers across our region are looking for skilled, compassionate professionals. This program gives individuals a direct pathway into those careers while strengthening the communities we serve.”
Students will train in a variety of care settings and graduate ready to take the next step toward licensure and employment in hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and more.
“Our goal is to prepare competent, compassionate, and ethical nurses,” said Jackie Brown, RN, BSN, Health Services Coordinator of the program. “Students in this program won’t just learn technical skills, they’ll learn how to care for people. That’s what makes this work so meaningful.”
As TST BOCES continues to expand its Adult Education offerings, the Practical Nursing Program reflects a strong focus on workforce development and building pathways into in-demand careers across the region.
Anyone interested in applying to the program should plan to attend the upcoming Information Night:
Practical Nursing Program Information Night
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
555 Warren Road, Building A, Room A14, Ithaca, NY
See a map of our campus here: https://www.tstboces.org/page/maps-and-locations
Applications for the PN Program are due Monday, April 13, 2026 and can be completed at: https://forms.gle/pcMRrRRpVY7x9cRw5
To learn more, visit www.tstboces.org/AdultEd or call (607) 273-4095.