The annual event is designed to strengthen collaboration between educational leaders and the Early College Career Academy (ECCA) community while highlighting the innovative programs and hands-on learning experiences available to students.
The Early College Career Academy offers five career pathways: advanced manufacturing, business and entrepreneurship, information technology and computer networking, new media and pathways to teaching.
The luncheon featured remarks from education leaders Anastasia L. Urtz, J.D., president of SUNY Adirondack, and Dr. Turina Parker, district superintendent of WSWHE BOCES. Following introductions, welcomes and program updates, student representatives from each pathway shared their experiences in ECCA. They spoke about skills gained through the program, the strengths they developed and advice for future students considering enrollment.
Michelle Tsao, principal of Saratoga Springs High School, said the program plays an important role in preparing students for success.
“ECCA is a great opportunity for our students,” Tsao said. “What we heard from the student speakers today is that ECCA prepares you for the different types of skills you are going to need in whatever career field you choose. It builds strong study habits, communication skills, balance, hands-on learning and collaboration. Those are needed in the workplace, and ECCA is preparing our students for their futures.”
Senior Josh Malo, a student from Saratoga Springs in the New Media Program, shared how the program has helped him grow both creatively and personally.
“The work that I have done at the college has tested me and pushed me outside my comfort zone in art,” Malo said. “They push us to bring out the best in ourselves. I have grown as an artist and as a person, and I feel stronger and more complete in my work.”
The luncheon concluded with district breakout discussions. During these sessions, school leaders reviewed district-specific enrollment data and student interest in the ECCA programs. Participants exchanged feedback, discussed trends and shared ideas and potential plans for increasing future enrollment.
To learn more about ECCA and PTECH, visit https://www.wswheboces.org/apps/pages/ECCA_PTECH.
Photo (L to R): Dani Brown from the Business & Entrepreneurship program, Josh Malo from the New Media program and Saratoga Springs High School Principal Michelle Tsao.