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Community Letter from Dr. Godshall - District Superintendent

October 24, 2023

 

 

Dear Orleans/Niagara BOCES Community:

 

With the second month of the 2023-2024 school year underway, I am pleased to supply this brief update.

 

The Orleans/Niagara BOCES career and technical education (CTE) enrollments continue to increase with many of the component districts sending over 50% of their juniors and seniors to CTE.  Those students maximize their high school years by gaining a life-long skill that serves them in the workforce, higher education pursuits or the military.  This year all of our CTE graduates will be certified in CPR and first aid as part of their preparation for the future.  We are proud of the fact that we remain the third largest BOCES CTE program in New York State. 

 

Our special needs population continues to be offered placement options and related services thanks to the great support of our staff.  Our special programs are in high demand with school districts utilizing our improved Co-Ser accessibility to meet social and emotional needs in their schools. 

 

Our adult/continuing education programs are in high demand for those looking to attain their GED and those considering career re-entry opportunities.  

 

COVID-19 has not disappeared, but we are operating at normalcy with our programs.  Flu clinics have been provided for all staff.  Holiday celebrations, social activities and open houses are occurring while we remain vigilant to safety concerns. 

 

We have learned that our pupils benefit most from in-person instruction and face-to-face daily interactions with their teachers and peers.  The BOCES greatly appreciates the work of the staff, who have adapted and contributed to the success of the clients we serve. 

 

We are following safety protocols, based upon recommendations from public health authorities, including the CDC and the state and local health departments, which include continued building cleaning.  Students and staff exposed to COVID-19 are not required to quarantine.  People who have been exposed to COVID-19 should follow CDC recommendations to wear a well-fitting mask for 10 days after exposure and get tested.  Students and staff who test positive for COVID-19 must isolate for five days at home after the beginning of symptoms.  Such persons may resume attending school or work after five days, if they are fever-free without fever-reducing medicine for 24 hours, their symptoms are improving, and they wear a mask through day 10.  BOCES staff will receive updated information as warranted, if revised guidance is issued by the CDC, a state or local health department, or the State Education Department (SED).

 

In cooperation with our county health departments, our local school districts and the BOCES are being reimbursed for building high-efficiency air filters, air purifiers and offering regular vaccine clinics at various sites. 

 

Other program improvements include increased site security along with air conditioning and air handling replacements at the Orleans Center, with concurrent capital work scheduled at our Niagara sites in future years. 

  

Quality regional education services require the teamwork and support of our clients, community and staff.  We remain proud of our record of service and appreciate the tremendous support you have given us, and we look forward to working closely with our entire BOCES community as we progress in the 2023-2024 school year.  Check out our programs at www.onboces.org.

 

Sincerely,

C.J. Godshall

 Dr. Clark J. Godshall

District Superintendent/CEO