OLEAN — The Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs at Cattaraugus-Allegany BOCES (CA BOCES) are setting the standard for excellence across New York state.

According to the 2023-24 New York State Education Department’s CTE survey, CA BOCES leads all BOCES regions with 52% of eligible 11th and 12th grade students enrolled in CTE programs — demonstrating the region’s strong commitment to career readiness through technical education.

CABOCES offers 17 state-approved programs, many of which boast completion rates above 90%, including Welding & Metal Fabrication, Culinary Arts and Natural Resources.

Christopher Gagliardo, CA BOCES Assistant Superintendent for Career and Technical Education Services, said these outcomes reflect the dedication of CA BOCES instructors, the strength of CA BOCES’s relationship with its component districts and community business partners and the incredible commitment of the students.

“Our programs are designed to meet the changing needs of students and the workforce,” he said. “We’re proud to offer pathways that lead to this type of real-world success”

Scott Payne, District Superintendent and CEO, said CA BOCES’s mission is to empower students with the skills, confidence and opportunities they need to thrive.

“These results are a testament to the collaborative spirit of our region and the impact of CTE on student lives and futures,” he added. “We applaud the work done by all of our component school districts to promote multiple pathways for success for students.”

Leading the state with 52% in eligible CA BOCES enrollment, other nearby BOCES districts saw Erie 1 with a 30% eligible enrollment, Erie 2 (Cattaraugus-Chautauqua) with a 28% eligible enrollment and Schuyler-Steuben-Chemung-Tioga-Allegany with a 38% eligible enrollment.

According to CTEDS reporting, 81% of CA BOCES CTE graduates from the Class of 2023-24 are enrolled in post-secondary education, employed or serving in the military — underscoring the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for life beyond high school.

As the regional leader in education services, CA BOCES offers state-of-the-art programs for learners of all ages and abilities as well as cost-effective shared services for 22 component school districts. CA BOCES empowers students to achieve their maximum potential by offering a wide variety of innovative programs and support that include special education, career and technical education, adult and continuing education, technology support and instructional support services. To learn more, visit www.caboces.org.