Schenectady to Receive $2.7 million to Expand Early College Access & Career Mentorship
Today Governor Kathy Hochul announced $31.5 million in funding for the New York State Pathways in Technology (NYS P-Tech) program that will prepare students for high-skill jobs of the future in technology, manufacturing, health care, and finance. The Schenectady City School District is pleased to share that the district is one of 12 school districts statewide awarded funding and will receive $2,700,00 in partnership with SUNY Schenectady, Ellis Medicine and the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce.
The NYS P-Tech Program incorporates an integrated four to six year program that combines high school, college, and career training. The program is a public-private partnership designed to provide students with mentorship and opportunities to learn through worksite visits, speakers and internships.
“This is great news for our students,” said Anibal Soler, Jr., Superintendent of the Schenectady City School District. “This funding provides another meaningful opportunity toward changing the narrative in our schools and community. I am grateful to Governor Hochul for this funding and opportunity to help our students be successful.” Soler also expressed gratitude to the district’s partners at SUNY Schenectady, Ellis Medicine and the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce. “We are in this work together,” he said. “I sincerely appreciate their partnership and the meaningful opportunities available to Schenectady students.”
The program in Schenectady will be called “Smart Tech” and deliver a program modeled in part after the successful early college programming developed by the school district and SUNY Schenectady.
Students will be eligible to receive an associate degree in a high-tech field and are first in line for a job with participating business partners following completion of the program. Through the program, students will be able to earn transcript college credit. Career pathways begin in grade nine and include workplace learning and high school and college coursework. The pathway provides a seamless sequence of study extending through two years of post-secondary career and technical education which culminates in an associate degree.
“We are thrilled by today’s announcement from Governor Hochul that SUNY Schenectady’s partnership with the Schenectady School District, the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce, and Ellis Medicine has been awarded $2.7 million for the New York State Pathways in Technology program,” said Dr. Steady Moono, President of SUNY Schenectady. “Every young adult should have the opportunity to explore what energizes and interests them, giving them room to develop their talents, explore possible careers, earn college credits and degrees, and become excited about their future. P-TECH does just that, and this substantial funding award is an exciting investment in our young people while providing employers with talented individuals.”
“This P-TECH grant will strengthen and expand our current Early College High School Partnerships with the Schenectady City School District,” said Pamela McCall, Interim Dean of Academic Affairs, SUNY Schenectady. “Creating opportunities for students to access higher education by creating pathways into high-demand and tech fields is paramount to the success of our youth. Students will engage in college coursework and with business mentors, and they will have opportunities for internships in high-skilled careers. We look forward to partnering with the Capital Region Chamber of Commerce and Ellis Medicine and creating a stronger workforce for our community.”
“Early workforce development and career mentorship allows students to discover their passions and talents, develop their skills and build relationships with mentors who can guide them on their career journey and prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow,” said Governor Hochul in a release Wednesday. “This program will help ensure thousands of New York students can reach their full potential and give employers access to a large pool of talent that can bring their enterprises to the next level.”
The school district and SUNY Schenectady already collaborate and provide opportunities for students to earn college credits and an associate degree. This funding will provide additional resources, support, mentorship, and access to post-secondary opportunities and careers to many more students.
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