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EASTERN SUFFOLK BOCES SUCCESS STORIES
Jonathan Hoyos
ESBOCES Professional Pilot Training graduate of the Suffolk Aviation program
“The Eastern Suffolk BOCES Aviation program was a great foundation for me. I have love and passion for my career choice.”
When Jonathan was a child, all he ever thought about was flying planes. In 1995, he emigrated from Colombia, South America with his mother. He remembers traveling to the United States on a Boeing 767 and asking his mother if he could see the pilot and visit the cockpit. His mother asked the flight attendant if this was possible and his wish was granted! Jonathan recalls just wanting to push all those buttons on the console! This was a dream come true!
In 2003, Jonathan became a United States citizen and had to overcome a language barrier as well as social and cultural differences. “The American lifestyle is different from what I knew in Columbia,” he said. “It’s more laid back over there – here, there are many rules and everything is time-sensitive.” Being the only man in the household, Jonathan has had to be responsible and self-motivated from a young age. Unable to take on even a part-time job, Jonathan shared, “I am needed at home most of the time. I do chores and baby sit my nine-year-old niece for income.”
Jonathan and his family moved out to Shirley, Long Island from Queens, in 2006. In his sophomore year at the William Floyd UFSD, he visited his guidance counselor, inquiring about technical education opportunities specifically in the auto field, though he shared his real passion for aviation. Having this information, the guidance counselor was able to direct Jonathan to the ESBOCES Aviation program where she knew his dreams could take flight. This program would provide opportunities to operate actual aircraft and become a licensed professional pilot before graduating from high school.
During his first year in the Aviation program, Jonathan was undecided about what career path he should take. “My first year instructor, Mr. Louis Ballester, was my mentor and my motivation. He set me in the right direction.” Jonathan attributes his success to his experience at ESBOCES. Because he attained his pilot’s license before his classmates, he was able to help them with various aspects of the Aviation program. Jonathan said, “I helped my peers with things like cross country planning, systems on the airplane, and weight and balance.” Jonathan in turn said, “I’m very grateful to every teacher and secretary. They did their job to the max.”
Jonathan demonstrated ability and the desire to accelerate into the second year ESBOCES Aviation / Professional Pilot Training program. Only those students who have met the requirements, which include passing a medical examination, passing the FAA written examination, and who are in good standing with the instructors and administration are offered this opportunity. Jonathan said, “A private pilot’s license authorizes you to fly an aircraft for pleasure and/or for private business purposes, but not commercially for hire or reward. It allows ordinary people an extraordinary freedom – like visiting friends in another state for the day!”
Monday through Friday, if meteorological conditions are right, twelve noon can’t come soon enough for Jonathan. Depending on the wind, pressure, and visibility he can look forward to his flight group being called to fly.
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Adrian Quinones
ESBOCES Adult Education Carpentry program graduate
of the Brookhaven Technical Center
“I believe I have a better chance in life because of the excellent opportunities
I was afforded at Eastern Suffolk BOCES.”
When asked about his childhood, Adrian shares that he came from a tough neighborhood
in East New York. He is reticent talking about that period of his life. He had a
fear of the city, never liked traveling on the subways, and he wanted to get away
from all the fighting. He gained strength of character when he participated in the
ROTC Air Force while attending Franklin K. Lane School in Brooklyn. He humbly shares
that he competed in the National Color Guard competition and became a drill commander.
He said, “I learned to be a leader, how to command, and how to follow directions.”
Another fond memory was of his English teacher, Mr. O’Connor, who stayed after school
to teach him English. “He challenged me to improve myself,” Adrian said of Mr. O’Connor.
Adrian was the type of child who always wanted to learn; who believed in working
hard, who wanted to have a better life. His stepfather wanted the same thing for
the family and convinced Adrian’s mother they should move farther east on Long Island.
They struggled, saved their money, and moved out to Mastic Beach in 2005. During
high school, Adrian remained after school to receive extra help from math teacher
Ms. Lillian Lennon. She helped him with math and knew he struggled with learning
English so she helped him with both subjects.
Adrian said, “Ms. Lennon was instrumental in helping me find my way. She said she
could see my potential and could see that I just wanted to learn so much.” They
became very close and now Ms. Lennon is godmother to his ninemonth- old daughter
Adrianna. Adrian said, “If it wasn’t for Ms. Lennon I wouldn’t be in ESBOCES. She
helped me get my drivers’ license and suggested I try and secure funding for the
ESBOCES Adult Education Carpentry program through the Vocational and Educational
Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID).” VESID provides services for
students entering adult vocational education programs to help them reach their employment
goals.
Adrian graduated from the William Floyd UFSD in 2007. He began classes at ESBOCES
in September of 2008. Between attending ESBOCES and working at Brookhaven Hospital,
Adrian put in more than a full day’s work. He attended the ESBOCES Carpentry program
from noon until 2:45 p.m., and followed that up with a job at Brookhaven Hospital
working from 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Francis Nilsen, ESBOCES carpentry teacher said,
“Adrian has a passion for working with his hands.” Since September, Adrian has been
part of the crew building a house, a one-bedroom condominium that is scheduled to
be sold on eBay. Adrian said, “I’m very excited to be a part of this crew.” He said
of Mr. Nilsen, “He gives us a lot of attention and we do lots of hands-on projects.
He explains things step-by-step so you can understand.” Adrian aspires to be a member
of the Local 7 Carpenter’s Union after he gets more experience volunteering through
Habitat for Humanity.
Adrian is engaged to Marissa and together they qualify for a Habitat for Humanity
house. They will help build the house and pay for some of it through sweat equity.
Adrian said, “I want to continue volunteering with Habitat to give back to others
and to get more experience doing construction.” He added, “It’s good to say that
my hands helped build the house we are going to live in. It’s very good to work
with my hands. Marissa says, “I’m a perfectionist. This is a good thing. I want
to do things right.”
Adrian said, “I always mention my experiences at Eastern Suffolk BOCES. I tell my
friends and family about the people I met in my carpentry class. I have the option
of taking the National Center for Construction Education Research (NCCER) Exam and
being placed on the NCCER National Registry. When I graduate I will get a certificate.”
“I feel this program has prepared me to work in all areas in the field of construction.
There are many career opportunities for me and I’m thankful to all those people
who believed in me, saw something in me, and helped me. I have a better chance in
life now.”
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Christopher Kongoletos
ESBOCES Law
Enforcement program at the H. B. Ward Technical and Academic Center
“The law enforcement field has always been a major interest for me. I felt the program
at Eastern Suffolk BOCES and the internships offered could help me make a better
decision for my career choices once I graduate from college.”
Originally, Chris
was interested in attaining his pilot’s license through the ESBOCES Aviation program
until he learned his poor vision would preclude him from that career.
Having recently
been accepted into the United States Military Academy at West Point, Chris can now
look back to the time when he visited his guidance counselor at Shoreham-Wading
River High School, inquiring about the career programs available at ESBOCES, and
see that his path to success may have begun at this serendipitous meeting. He learned
that the Law Enforcement program would provide him with expanded opportunities and
cooperative learning experiences with police agencies, forensics, crime scene investigations,
and the prospect of participating in a one-week course at the Suffolk County Police
Academy to experience life as a police recruit. Chris said, “There were only 40
positions available in the weeklong internship. I believe that being able to say
that I participated in the Suffolk County Policy Academy internship program and
having hands-on experience in law enforcement will open my career opportunities.”
Chris is quick to point out other aspects of the ESBOCES program that were beneficial
to him. He said, “I learned how to interview and the ins and outs of the American
legal system and the law enforcement community. Attending the ESBOCES Law Enforcement
program heightened my interest in majoring in law at West Point.”
The application
process for West Point was long and arduous. He is happy to report that he was able
to attain a congressional nomination from New York Congressman Timothy Bishop. Only
a few are given out, so he feels honored and grateful. Chris’ aspirations at West
Point include majoring in law and attending jump school where he can springboard
into the airborne unit.
Chris was further inspired to apply to West Point due to
his experience at Cedar Bridge Military Academy, a private military academy serving
youths ages 11-17. First Sergeant Baryla, the
founder and president of the academy, inspired him. Chris said, “He instilled in
me the values necessary for success.” The ESBOCES Law Enforcement program, along
with his experiences at Cedar Bridge, allowed Chris to find the career path that
he loves. “Having this knowledge will guide me for the rest of my life to bigger
and better things,” he said.
There are many reasons why Chris would encourage and
advise fellow students to attend the Law Enforcement program at ESBOCES. He said,
“We get a more hands-on and in-depth exposure to the American legal system. I also
enjoyed being able to dedicate half a school day to a subject that I truly enjoy.
I feel I received a better and more complete understanding of what I am learning
rather than what is taught in a typical 41-minute period.”
Chris had the pleasure
of formulating friendships while attending ESBOCES. He met and became close friends
with Christian B. and Diana H., both of whom attended the ESBOCES Law Enforcement
program and later became trainers at the Suffolk County Police Academy. Chris said,
“I still keep in contact with Diana and have come to think of her as my big sister.
Both she and Christian influenced and assisted me.” He also gives credit to his
teacher, Anthony Abarno, “He helped me daily on my path to West Point.”
He added,
“All the opportunities and experiences I have been afforded I believe will show
law enforcement agencies that I am dedicated and interested in a career in law enforcement.”
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Carol Intriago
Eastern Suffolk BOCES Dental Assisting program
graduate of Brookhaven Technical Center
“My parents wanted every possible educational opportunity for me,” said Brookhaven
Technical Center graduate Carol Intriago, “so I enrolled in Eastern Suffolk BOCES
Dental Assisting program. It was terrific.
” Written on the white board at the front of a Brookhaven Technical Center (BTC)
classroom and dental lab a visitor saw:
- April 22: Job Fair
- April 23: Complete head and neck anatomy notes and study for patient care quiz
- April 24: Understanding Acid Reflux.” Have a nice weekend.
Welcome to the world of Dental Assisting students at Eastern Suffolk BOCES. As their
day began, on their desks was everything they needed to know about orthodontics:
- Occlusion and malocclusion
- Mesiocclusion
- Process of tooth movement
- Preorthodontic treatment
- Orthodontic instruments
At the front desk was teacher Carol Intriago, dental hygienist, adjunct professor
at SUNY Farmingdale, and ESBOCES and Sachem CSD graduate, 1994. Flashing a bright
smile, she greeted 13 students and passed out papers.
What very few people realize
when they meet Carol is that when her family arrived in this country from Ecuador,
she couldn’t speak English. She perfected her new language through hard work and
dedication, the same strengths she uses daily to teach her students. “My parents
came to America for a better life and a better education for us,” she explained
recently. “They wanted their children to have every possible opportunity.”
While
a sophomore at Sachem High School, her guidance counselor spoke about ESBOCES career
classes. She says that information, combined with her desire to help others, led
her to register at BTC for her junior year. Her Dental Assisting teacher, Catherine
Muller, soon became her mentor. “I wanted to be just like her. When I accepted the
position here, I thought, ‘My gosh, now I am her’.” Ms. Muller currently teaches
at H.B. Ward Technical and Academic Center in Riverhead.
"I was always conscientious of my teeth,’ she had explained to a visitor,
“and one day my mother said, ‘You can be whatever you want to be, but first open
the newspapers and see where the jobs are’.” Following that advice, she found jobs
advertised for dental assistants, which seemed like a natural career choice. By
enrolling in the ESBOCES course, she decided, she could experience the profession
before heading off to college. “I loved it!” she exclaimed.
Dental Assisting students
learn to prepare dental materials, perform basic business procedures, prepare clients’
data, and gain practical experience in radiology and fourhanded dentistry in a simulated
environment equipped with current equipment and software. Experience is gained during
private practice affiliation and/or clinics. “I tell my students that after they
become dental hygienists, they can move on. There’s room for growth; this is a stepping-stone
to other things. Plus, the pay is good.”
While a student at BTC, Carol also made
lifelong friends. “It’s a great atmosphere,” she reflected, “very conducive to learning
and meeting new people.” She graduated early from Sachem CSD, went to Suffolk County
Community College, and continued her studies at SUNY Farmingdale, all the while
keeping in touch with her former classmates.
“Now what I look forward to, among
other things,” she commented with a big smile, “is my students someday returning
to tell me about the difference I have made in their lives. I want to know all about
their successes.”
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Celine Castella
Eastern Suffolk BOCES Early Childhood Education
program (ECE) graduate of the Edward J. Milliken Technical Center
“I owe my future to Eastern Suffolk BOCES,” said Celine Castella, a graduate working
at Tutor Time.
Working as a teaching assistant in a class of seven little ones, aged 18 months
to three years, means always being upbeat, repeatedly baby-proofing the environment,
and making sure the love of learning blossoms. These are easy tasks for Celine Castella,
at Tutor Time Child Care Learning Center in East Setauket, because she loves her
job.
The Eastern Suffolk BOCES graduate of the Early Childhood Education program says
she has the best job in the world; an occupation where every day a child says, “I
love you.” Her story begins, however, on a rocky path due to a head trauma from
a childhood fall. Overcoming that has added to her self-esteem and directed her
on the smooth path of preparing children for the future. “It’s my passion, actually,”
she said recently to a visitor. “I love being with the little ones.”
While in her sophomore year at Ward Melville High School in Three Village CSD, her
guidance counselor spoke about the ECE classes available through Eastern Suffolk
BOCES. The half-day course, five days a week, is for high school juniors and seniors
who are serious about the responsibility and knowledge required to work with, and
safely supervise, youngsters as a profession, she told her. In addition, by enrolling
as an ESBOCES student for her junior year, the hands-on experience would confirm
that this is what she is meant to do after graduation. Celine and her dad visited
the ESBOCES Islip Career Center (ICC) in Oakdale, “and we liked what we saw,” she
told her friends and family. During her junior year in ECE with teacher Bette Ann
Stark, the 11th-grader knew this was “the right field” for her.
The ECE program is designed to prepare students for careers as teachers or childcare
providers. The study of child development is coordinated with direct work experience
with three- and four-year-olds in a pre-school laboratory. This course is for high
school juniors and seniors who are serious about the responsibility and knowledge
required to successfully work with and safely supervise children.
During the first year of the course, child growth and development is studied, along
with planning and organizing the learning environment, guidance and discipline,
and health Page 2 of 2 Eastern Suffolk BOCES and safety. The second year focuses
on classroom management and supervision, parental relationship, equipment and supplies,
and preparing for CDA (Child Development Associate) certification. CDA is a nationally
recognized credential that requires 480 hours of practical experience in a licensed
facility, 120 hours of classroom instruction, and a rigorous assessment process.
Students are eligible to receive their CDA credentials upon their 18th birthday,
successful completion of the assessment process, and receipt of their high school
diploma.
While in ESBOCES classes, Celine made lifelong friends and says she highly recommends
the agency for those who want to be sure of their chosen profession before they
head to college, or if they want to jumpstart their careers. Instructor Bette Ann
Stark recently said of Celine, “She persevered and overcame personal and school
related obstacles. She worked hard and was eager to graduate to begin working with
children. She is a lovely, caring, nurturing young woman who is dedicated to her
job at Tutor Time.”
Today, at age 20, Celine is working full-time at Tutor Time in East Setauket. She
is planning to enroll at Suffolk County Community College for the fall semester
where she will work towards a degree in Early Childhood Education and her goal of
becoming an early childhood education teacher. Her joy is obvious as she begins
to read to her charges before naptime, a book that is one of their favorites, Good
Night Moon. Later she sings to them, “The Wheels on the Bus Go Round and Round.”
The match between Celine and Tutor Time is perfect as both prepare children to become
lifelong learners.
Tutor Time Director Jennifer O’Leary reports that a permanent position was offered
after Celine had volunteered at the center. “She’s a pleasure,” she commented. “She’s
a good worker, very reliable, excels with toddler groups, and she’s always happy
to be here.”
The parents of her charges seem to agree; many of whom regularly give her thank
you cards. “It’s so nice when they tell me how appreciative they are,” Celine added.
Meanwhile, those walking through the hall could hear, “And the wipers on the bus
go swish, swish, swish. Swish, swish, swish. Swish, swish, swish. The wipers on
the bus go swish, swish, swish, all through the town.”
The ECE program is available at the following ESBOCES sites: Brookhaven Technical
Center in Bellport, 286-6538; Islip Career Center in Oakdale, 244-5800; and the
H.B. Ward Technical & Academic Center in Riverhead, 369-8100.
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Steve Miglino
Eastern Suffolk BOCES Marine and Motorcycle Engine Repair
graduate
Steve decided at the young age of twelve that he was going to live in Florida. He
didn’t like snow and he liked to go boating and ride motorcycles on a regular basis.
Florida was the practical dream. Little did he know that six years later at the
age of 18 his dream would become a reality.
When Steve was 13 years old, he began
tinkering with motorcycle engines. He professes to owning his first motorcycle at
age 14, much to the chagrin of his parents. Nevertheless, they knew his passion
and desire to work on motorcycles, and during his sophomore year at the Sachem CSD,
Steve enrolled in the Eastern Suffolk BOCES Marine and Motorcycle Engine Repair
program. Steve said, “The biggest obstacle to attending BOCES was scheduling lunch.
I either gave it up or ate on the bus. Not much of a giveup because the program
was well worth the small sacrifice.”
The Marine and Outdoor Power Equipment program
provides students with the practical experience of working on two- and four-cycle
engines and the skill to service, maintain, repair, and recondition marine craft.
Students also obtain knowledge to repair motorcycles, mopeds, ATV’s, and scooters.
The curriculum encompasses most marine systems including but not limited to fuel,
drive, electrical and electronics, fiberglass repair, welding and machining. Steve
said of his teacher Mike Vagner, “He was a great teacher and person. Mr. Vagner’s
skill level and mechanical abilities were very high. I can’t say enough about him.”
The Marine and Outdoor Power Equipment program is a two-year program. In Steve’s
junior year of high school he competed in the Vocational Industrial Clubs of America
(VICA) (now referred to as SkillsUSA), at the regional and state levels in Farmingdale
and Syracuse New York respectively, and ultimately competed at the national level
taking fourth place. He competed once again in his senior year of high school and
secured first place at both the regional and state levels, advancing into the national
competition in Kansas City. This time he went for the gold and captured it. With
this first place win, Steve was offered a full-time scholarship to the Marine Mechanical
Institute (MMI) in Florida. At 18 years of age, his dream was coming true and he
had a free ride. Steve said, “This was a dream come true. I have to thank Mr. Vagner
for teaching me how to troubleshoot and instilling in me motivational skills to
push forward.”
From working at Honda Fun Wheels
in Medford, to becoming a homeowner at the age of 19, to co-owning a boat and motor
business, wasn’t all that amazing to Steve. He is quick to say, “Eastern Suffolk
BOCES gave me a good starting point. The program set me up with the fundamentals.
The education I received was a good foundation.”
While in college, Steve worked
at COSCO in the evenings and weekends. He secured a job at Fisher Marine Services
and became good friends with his service manager Ron Russell. Good fortune has followed
Steve because of all his hard work. His manager Ron was offered a position at Richey
Boat and Motor Marina and wouldn’t accept the job unless he could take Steve with
him. What a testament to Steve’s abilities in the field! In 2002, at 28 years old,
Steve became co-owners of Richey Boat and Motor Marina in Hudson, Florida. He said,
“I’m doing pretty well, even in this economy. I have BOCES to thank for providing
me with direction, a great education, and the fundamentals I needed to be successful
in this industry.”
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Meghan Healy
Eastern Suffolk BOCES Art Design and Visual Communications program graduate
Meghan attended the ESBOCES Open House when she was a sophomore in Bayport-Blue
Point high school. “I remember walking through the Islip Technical Center trying
to decide whether I wanted to enroll in the photography program or the advertising
art program.” With support and guidance from both her parents, Meghan chose advertising
art and design. Her goal was to create a portfolio that would assist her in future
college interviews.
From a young age, Meghan knew she wanted to pursue art. “It was something I was
good at,” she said. “I had difficulty with reading and written expression. That
was my weakness, but art was my strength.”
“I’m a very visual learner. I had such a hard time with spelling and reading. It
was exhausting for me to read.” ESBOCES and the advertising class were very beneficial
to Meghan for a number of reasons. “BOCES had a resource room, so anytime I needed
to take a written test I went there. Mr. Rotello, my instructor, was very accommodating.
There were no boundaries because everything was visual. He used diagrams and he
showed examples so I could understand techniques and concepts. The biggest thing
he taught me as a 17 year old was about deadlines. They are very important, especially
in the advertising field.”
During her senior year in high school, Meghan decided she wanted to explore a career
in the field of fine arts and secured an interview at C.W. Post Long Island University
(LIU). Students are accepted into the art program based on their portfolio. The
portfolio she compiled at ESBOCES was quite expansive and diverse and showcased
the broad spectrum of concepts she learned. She said, “We didn’t use computers so
everything I did was by hand.” Her portfolio included typography/lettering, the
fundamentals of layout and design, presentation graphics, sketchings, silkscreen,
product design, and color and medium application. Meghan graduated from ESBOCES
in 1993 and was accepted into LIU’s art program that September. Four years later,
Meghan graduated with a B.F.A. from LIU. Meghan continued with her studies at CUNY,
Brooklyn College. After she attained her M.F.A., she worked in an after school program
teaching art through a non-profit organization called CAMBA. They provide programs
to low income youth from preschool through high school. She said, “I really liked
working with the kids. I felt like I was born to teach.”
Teaching elementary school-aged students was rewarding, but Meghan wanted to work
with kids with disabilities and with high school students. “I really wanted to connect
with kids more on a personal level and I felt I could do that better with high school
students,” she said. Meghan interviewed and landed a job at Martin DePorres High
School in Queens, New York. For six years, she has taught students with special
needs whose disabilities run the gamut from Asperger's Syndrome, to ADHD, to students
with other emotional disabilities. “For five years I taught the general studio and
art class and I incorporate painting, sculpting, and art history into the class.
I’m very excited because I’m starting a ceramics program this year.”
Meghan shared, “A learning disability never goes away so you have to learn to over
compensate for your disability.” Her parents were a big inspiration to her. “They
knew I could do it. They were very supportive. They would do anything to help me
and find new avenues to support my strength in art.”
Art is not about the words, it’s about the process and the materials. Meghan had
a passion for art and an inherent talent. Her life experiences, hard work and determination,
supportive environment, and course work at ESBOCES paved a path towards a lifelong
career in art. She tells her students, “Pursue something that interests you. See
it through. Test the waters.” She added, “I credit BOCES as a stepping stone for
me, a place where I was able to test the waters. Now I’m in a position to give back
to students with disabilities.”
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Rebecca Corea
Eastern Suffolk BOCES Practical Nursing program graduate of the
Brookhaven Technical Center
“Overall job opportunities are excellent for nurses,” says Rebecca Corea, “and I
have ESBOCES to thank for making sure I will excel in this field.”
A recent graduate of the Practical Nursing program at Eastern Suffolk BOCES Brookhaven
Technical Center (BTC), Rebecca also completed her senior year at Patchogue-Medford
High School. A passionate student, her interest is in medicine, and thanks to the
recentlyawarded ROTHCO Scholarship, she will be able to pursue her dream. The scholarship
is awarded to a high school student who has overcome numerous obstacles in her life.
Today, at 18 years of age, Rebecca is intelligent, selfassured, and dynamic. But,
she wasn’t always that way. Rebecca’s beloved mother, Alicia, died six years ago,
and her father left only days later, so for a period of time after the death, she
was unsure of who she was and where she was going. When both parents suddenly leave
behind a young child, it is not surprising that the youngster becomes confused,
unsure, and frightened of the future. In Rebecca’s case, it took someone accusing
her of something she didn’t do to make her pull herself up to her full height and
reveal the determination to succeed that was sleeping inside her. She would become
the person her mother dreamed she could be. Years later, she said, “I believe that
everything happens for a reason and from that incident, I found the strength to
move forward.”
As a former Patchogue-Medford UFSD student, Rebecca graduated in June 2009 with
a 96 grade-point average, and received a Regents Diploma. Rebecca plans to attend
Suffolk County Community College (SCCC) before applying to Adelphi University. She
wants to devote herself to medicine and healing, with a specific interest in Down
Syndrome. “Education is the gateway to success,” she said recently, “and I’ve worked
hard to get where I am today. Like they say, if you can imagine it, you can dream
it, and when you dream it, you can do it. And, I’m dreaming very big.” Rebecca also
works at a local department store, leaving some to wonder when she has time to sleep.
ESBOCES Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Instructor and Registered Nurse Denise Filingeri
was Rebecca’s teacher the half day she spent at BTC, five days a week. She says,
“Rebecca consistently demonstrated leadership qualities and professionalism in every
aspect of her clinical and academic classes. She is a role model to current and
future students in this program.”
ESBOCES Student Assistance Services (SAS) Counselor Amy Roland volunteered to be
Rebecca’s sponsor when the ROTHCO Scholarship application arrived on her desk. “I
immediately thought that no one deserves this more,” Ms. Roland explained. The scholarship,
established in memory of a ROTHCO employee who had faced many challenges in his
life with little support, is awarded to Long Island youths who have overcome significant
obstacles in completing their education. Rebecca was selected by the ROTHCO Scholarship
Committee as a 2009 recipient from an application submitted by SAS, which helped
ROTHCO develop the criteria for the scholarship when it first began awarding it
several years ago.
The $6,000 scholarship, with additional financing for all books for two years, allowed
Rebecca to finish her ESBOCES course, study at SCCC, and get on the path to success
at Adelphi.
According to the U.S Department of Labor’s 2008-09 Occupational Outlook Handbook,
“Overall job opportunities for registered nurses are expected to be excellent. Employment
of RNs is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through
2016.” Rebecca’s future looks very bright. While speaking with Ms. Roland, she looked
upward and remarked, “The sky is not the limit; I will reach the moon and the stars.”
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Matt Kozak
Eastern Suffolk BOCES Chef Instructor of Culinary Arts at the
Brookhaven Technical Center
“I tell my new students that in the Tom Petty song, ‘Learning to Fly’, he sings,
‘I’m learning to fly but I ain’t got wings.’ At Eastern Suffolk BOCES, we give you
those wings.”
Laid back, unassuming, and preferring a baseball cap to the traditional chef’s hat,
Eastern Suffolk BOCES Chef Instructor Matt Kozak becomes animated and vocal when
someone inquires about ESBOCES Career and Technical Education courses. He’s a one-man
marketing firm for the lessons provided to high school juniors and seniors interested
in Culinary Arts and Restaurant Operations Management.
A Certified Working Chef (CWC), Certified Sous Chef (CSC), and a member of the American
Culinary Federation, Chef Kozak has many cooking awards to savor, including some
from his early BOCES years, such as Student Chef of the Year, Long Island Junior
Chef of the Year, and Chef Educator of the Year. He has been chef at the U.S. Open,
been offered celebrity jobs, and enjoyed life experiences of which dreams are made.
Yet, he says, he is the happiest he’s ever been, right now, at this point in his
life. “I’m just a family-oriented guy,” he says.
As a junior at Hauppauge High School, he attended an Open House at ESBOCES Edward
J. Milliken Technical Center (MTC), interested in studying Culinary Arts. Having
found as a teenager that cooking “is instant gratification” and “everyone loves
to eat,” the future chef was impressed with the professional environment MTC offered
and he enrolled. During his junior and senior years at MTC, he was a member of the
Honor Society and praised for perfect attendance. Following graduation from both
schools, he attended Johnson & Wales University on an Advanced Placement scholarship.
He later attended New York Institute of Technology, followed by a position as lead
line cook at the luxurious Sandestin Beach and Golf Resort in Florida, where the
motto is “come to play, stay for life.” While down south, he cooked for then-Governor
Jeb Bush’s cigar dinner, which led to being chef at the exclusive Silver Shells
Beach Resort & Spa. He met with Julia Child and helped James Gandolfini (Tony
Soprano) open a restaurant. But, his heart remained on Long Island. Explaining that
he’s “not into celebrities’ lifestyles,” he returned home to become an ESBOCES Chef
Instructor, following an example set by his teacher and mentor, Rich Simon. He opened
his own business, Dinner Designs, and works summers for the well-known Lessing Family
Caterers.
Graduates of Chef Kozak’s ESBOCES classes are employed all over the country, from
the Three Village Inn in Stony Brook to Las Vegas resorts. “I love teaching for
BOCES,” he says, “and when former students contact me to say which facilities hired
them, I’m thrilled and proud.” Current student Greg Viera of Bay Shore UFSD says
of Chef Kozak, “He has taught me so much and given me terrific guidance. He recommended
I enroll at Johnson & Wales, and I have. Some day I will have my own business.”
Asked recently if he could, would he change anything, Chef Kozak replied, “Not a
thing. I love my life.”
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Joseph Rolleri
Eastern Suffolk BOCES Data Processing student in the Harry B. Ward
Technical and Academic Center
“Because of the education I received in the Eastern Suffolk BOCES Data Processing
program, I was able to test out of an entry level programming class at Suffolk County
Community College and advance directly into a higher level class.”
Back in 1984, when Joseph was a student in the Eastport-South Manor CSD, his guidance
counselor suggested he attend the Data Processing class at Eastern Suffolk BOCES
in Riverhead. He remembers there being only two computers in his high school and
during class, he and his friends wrote programs for computer games. He had a knack
for programming. It was logical. He said, “I seemed to have a natural ability.”
With encouragement from his counselor and the knowledge that attending the ESBOCES
program would ultimately help his high school grades, he said, “Sign me up.”
Back in the day, Joseph remembers working on a one-piece TRS80 computer in his ESBOCES
class. The computer ran off an MS-DOS disk. Computers at that time did not have
a hard drive. His teachers Mr. Soltan and Mr. Sullivan taught him the basic operations
of the computer, the binary number system, and the basic language of RPG.
Yes, those were the days. Joe fondly remembers attaining grades in the high 90’s
in the ESBOCES data processing class. He joined the Future Business Leaders of America
(FBLA), competed, and came in second place. He was also a member of the Vocational
Industrial Club of America (VICA), now known as SkillsUSA. He placed in the regional
competition and went on to compete in the state contest at the Concorde Hotel Upstate
New York. He attributes much of his success and finding his niche to ESBOCES.
After high school, Joe enrolled in Suffolk County Community College to study computer
science. He enjoys telling the story of how he tested out of the course because
SCCC was using the same textbook that he used while enrolled in the ESBOCES data
processing program. He pointed this out to his college professor, who proceeded
to call ESBOCES to find out if this were true. Joe said, “I think that ESBOCES was
on the cutting-edge of technology when I was in school. They made sure to keep up
with industry standards.” Joe advanced into an RPG II class and was well on his
way.
Back in the 80’s a Commodore 64 computer cost about $200. Joe and his friends still
couldn’t afford to own one so they did the next best thing: they built them out
of parts. Since that time, Joe has always believed in the “quality of the parts.”
Little did he know then that building systems for friends and family would eventually
lead him to owning his own business.
While continuing his education, working towards a degree in business administration
and applied science, Joe worked for several insurance companies. At the time, insurance
companies used the RPG language in their programs, and since Joe was so proficient
with the language, there was no shortage of work for him.
In 1996, Joe created DOS-BOOT Computers - and what an appropriate name for his company.
He breathes new life into computers or rebuilds them so they run better and last
longer. He said, “My heart is in computers. I love the challenge.”
Joe attributes the success of DOS-BOOT Computers to his formative years in ESBOCES.
Like his teachers at ESBOCES who offered “hands-on” experience to give the students
a better idea of what to expect in the field of data processing, Joe tries to educate
his customers. He gives back to his community as an emergency medical technician
for 22 years and to his customers with his Eight Things Not to Do with Your PC So
You Can Avoid Having it Reset Again informational sheet that he feels “will provide
information to help and protect them.” He said, “I have a great customer base. When
I fix something I do it right the first time.”
For more information about DOS-BOOT Computers, visit www.dosbootcomputers.com.
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Genine Schwinge
Eastern Suffolk BOCES Practical Nursing program graduate
“My BOCES teacher in Practical Nursing was Ms. Ryder, who was incredible. I loved
her. One day she took me aside and said, ‘You should be a registered nurse’.”
Genine Schwinge is a giver, not a taker. She views being a nurse as “someone who
makes a patient’s illness easier to bear.” She recently told a visitor to the John
T. Mather Memorial Hospital in Port Jefferson where she works that being a nurse
“is an honor.” She is an Eastern Suffolk BOCES graduate.
As a Three Village CSD sophomore, Genine was considering becoming a physical therapist;
working in the medical profession would be following her family’s tradition. She
had heard about career courses available at ESBOCES and after investigating them,
enrolled in Practical Nursing. She learned the basic skills necessary for the care
of patients, which are based on the principles of the biological, physical, and
social sciences and became confident this was her future. She enrolled for a second
year, which provided hands-on patient care opportunities in hospital settings. “Practical
Nursing is a very hard course,” she commented, “and not everyone is cut out for
it, but I clearly was on the right career path.”
Students considering this career choice need to be genuinely interested in helping
the sick, injured, convalescent, or disabled and have a head for science. Graduates
of the ESBOCES course are eligible to take the New York State Board Exam for licensure.
After graduation, Genine enrolled at SCCC where she brought eight credits earned
at ESBOCES, but soon discovered that the course was a repeat of what she had already
learned, so she transferred to Stony Brook University where she received her Bachelor’s
degree in nursing. While there, she was a member of the Honor Society and worked
on the student newspaper. She is a founding member of the Stony Brook School of
Nursing Alumni Advisory Board. Later, she received her master’s degree and became
licensed as both an Adult Nurse Practitioner and a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.
In addition to her current nursing responsibilities at Mather Memorial Hospital,
Genine is an assistant professor in the SCCC nursing program, a member of the Longwood
Board of Education, an advocate for special education, and the mother of two girls.
She is also leading the PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter) Service at
the hospital. PICC is a form of intravenous access used for long-term patient care
management.
Asked if, with hindsight, she would do anything differently, Genine replied, “No,
not at all.” Upon reflecting on her time at ESBOCES, she added, “Being a nurse means
working with a team, and I learned how to do that in BOCES. I’m doing that now as
a member of a Board of Education. Cohesiveness is crucial to a team’s success.”
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Nicole Rose
Eastern Suffolk BOCES Fashion Merchandising graduate
“I recommended ESBOCES to my younger sister, Alexa, and she enrolled. I told
her she’d learn the tools of the nursing trade and have good hands-on experiences.
It’s a great way to be sure you’re on the right career path.”
At a small table in a restaurant in front of a large window sat Nicole Rose, the
epitome of a young, up-and-coming Manhattan designer. She was having lunch with
an acquaintance, speaking about her life as a fashion and merchandising designer.
Her image is one of style, confidence, and happiness. She’s an Eastern Suffolk BOCES
graduate.
Nicole’s story of success actually begins at age ten, when she was taking private
lessons in oil painting while also learning to sew. As a tween, her creativity in
painting and clothes was blending into art and science. In middle school, she was
critiquing classmates’ outfits and drawing how they could and should look. By high
school, her varied talents had meshed and she enrolled at the Edward J. Milliken
Technical Center (MTC) in Oakdale to study Fashion Merchandising during her junior
and senior years at Connetquot CSD.
Nicole learned about ideas and expression, style and individualism, selecting fabrics,
and marketing. “We’d go on field trips,” she explained, “and meet professional designers.
I had a terrific BOCES teacher, Joyce Sims, who always told us the truth about our
work. Our parents would say that our creations were wonderful, but Ms. Sims spoke
honestly, knowing that the industry can be brutal.”
Confident she was on the right career path, Nicole participated in SkillsUSA. Mature
for her age, she was aware that to be successful in the world of fashion she should
also focus on communication. In regional SkillsUSA competition, she won the public
speaking category.
She maintained excellent grades in both MTC and Connetquot High School and after
graduation, continued her studies at one of the country’s most prestigious private
colleges, the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles. “I
was ready to spread my wings,” she said with a smile.
Now in her early 20s, she lives in New York’s East Village in a two-story loft decorated
with her own work and the talent of others. Her future plans include opening her
own business, the name of which will recall her time at ESBOCES: Lucidity. “One
of our projects in Ms. Sims’ classes was to create a store and that was the name,”
she explained. Additionally, Nicole will be taking commercial courses, realizing
it’s just as important to have business management expertise as it is to have an
eye for style. “The need to continue learning never stops,” she remarked.
Nicole’s resume reveals she has helped businesses open, designed a successful fashion
show at the Versace Mansion in Miami Beach, and is working for a premium jeans company
that sells in specialty stores. “BOCES gave me experience, confidence, and a lift
up in the field, and I’m grateful,” she said. “I love my life. Thank you BOCES.”
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