Congressman Gibson speaks with parent Suzanne Cleland, Questar III student Jordan Bulich and Questar III graduate Thomas Cleland.
Congressman Chris Gibson visited Questar III’s Columbia-Greene Educational Center on June 12 to learn more about how BOCES prepares students for post-secondary education and the workforce.
During an hour-long stop at the Hudson-based career-tech school, Gibson visited several classrooms and spoke to high school students about projects that ranged from cancer research to restaurant management.
Students Billy Burka, Amanda Repko and Nicole Wilcox guided the Kinderhook native on a tour of their school along with Questar III District Superintendent James Baldwin, Assistant Superintendent Andy DeFeo and Co-Principals Heather Lansing and Jake Stomieroski.
During a stop to the school’s Criminal Justice program, Gibson participated in a special ceremony on the last day of classes before the Regents exams – a final roll call that retiring police officers may do on their last day of work.
“It’s a great joy to be with you today. I’m a great admirer and supporter of BOCES programs,” Gibson said as he handed out certificates to high school seniors.
This was Gibson’s first tour of Questar III’s Columbia-Greene Educational Center. However, he said he was well aware of the value of career and technical education (CTE).
Gibson, whose 20th Congressional District covers much of Questar III’s supervisory region, explained to students that his brother attended Questar III’s auto program and his sister attended the cosmetology program – and how they were both happy in their careers and personal lives as a result.
The congressman later visited Questar III’s Aviation program. Student Bernie Watt explained how he and his classmates were learning how to fly in low visibility using instruments. Watt, who earned his private pilot’s license in February through the program, will be attending Schenectady County Community College for aviation science.
“You really represent us well. I admire your courage to take on learning how to fly in your teenage years,” Gibson said.
The congressman later visited seniors in Questar III’s Introduction to Food Services/Introduction Employment and Culinary Arts programs.
Students walked Gibson through hands-on projects related to making detergent and starting their own restaurants.
Recalling his time at Ichabod Crane High School three decades earlier, Gibson challenged students to take advantage of this pivotal moment in their lives.
“You are here because you have a passion and you are learning from someone who loves it as well. Follow your heart and be thankful for those who coach and mentor you,” he said.
Nicole Wilcox, who will attend SUNY Cobleskill this fall, discussed her culinary team’s success at the New York State ProStart competition earlier in the year. The team finished third, earning each student $5,500 in scholarships.
Gibson concluded his visit by meeting with students Billy Burka and Jordan Bulich, and college student Thomas Cleland and his mother Suzanne.
Burka, who is working to become an Eagle Scout, shared a portfolio of projects, achievements and references. The Criminal Justice student plans to become a New York State Park police officer, environmental conservation officer or a sheriff.
The 2012 valedictorian at Catskill High School, Bulich discussed cancer research she completed at Questar III’s New Visions: Scientific Research & World Health program located at the University at Albany’s East Campus. Gibson encouraged Bulich, who will be attending Stanford University this fall, to consider publishing her original research related to PCBs in the Hudson River.
The Clelands also discussed the value of Questar III programs, and the need to challenge students with hands-on learning. Thomas, who attended Questar III’s New Visions: Scientific Research & World Health program several years ago, is now a student at the University of Buffalo.
Bulich and Cleland described how their Questar III experiences went beyond the four walls of the classroom. Both detailed the connections they made through the program including the experience they gained as volunteers on a medical mission to Guatemala.
Concluding his visit, Gibson pledged his support for Questar III’s programs and looked forward to returning in the near future.
“I really enjoyed my visit. Your approach represents a model that all of America needs,” Gibson said.
