Just inside the entrance to the EMS classroom, instructor Robert Del Greco held court, answering questions from parents seeking more information about the popular program. To Mr. Del Greco’s left, a group of students circled around a mannequin. Three of them demonstrated how to use an AED, a portable machine that uses voice prompts to guide first responders attempting to aid a patient experiencing cardiac arrest.
Those types of hands-on demonstrations allowed prospective students and their family members a glimpse into life on the Center for Career Services campus in Valhalla. They were an important part of the Spring Open House on Thursday, March 19.
The students and their families met with instructors and learned about the wide range of the career and technical education programs offered by Southern Westchester BOCES.
More than 400 visitors attended. Families enjoyed dinner and dessert prepared and served by students in the Culinary Arts program before touring the programs. Current students demonstrated what they’ve learned, while future students and families met instructors and asked questions about the programs.
In EMS and Audio Production, students showcased their new skills, while Cosmetology and Welding displayed an assortment of completed projects.
Student work lined the corridors, highlighted by the renderings of Architecture students, beverage packaging created in Advertising & Graphic Design, and dresses designed by Fashion Design & Merchandising students, whose creations recently hit the runway at Fashion Night Out Westchester.
The format allowed the younger students — especially those still deciding which program to pursue — to explore multiple options in one evening and see what kinds of projects may lie ahead. The Open House also offered additional resources, including an opportunity to meet the school’s counselors in one room while a Transition and College Fair was held in another.
The event underscored the value of hands-on learning and the many pathways a career and technical education can open for students.