April 2024
Volume 7
Hi, folks!
This is an especially busy time of the school year at BTC. There are so many exciting deep learning opportunities happening around the center. Many classes are working on their industry recognized credentials (IRC). You’ll see some of our senior Automotive students below proudly displaying their Tire Industry Association certificates. Students in Introduction to Health Care are continuing to prepare for the clinical hours happening later in the month for their LNA requirements. Phlebotomy students in the Health Sciences Academy did their first live “sticks” this week, and their classmates continue down the path to EMT testing. The Aviation students continue working through the requirements of the FAA General, and they will be joined by our post-secondary aviation students for their SkillsUSA competition on Friday. Both Design & Illustration and the Digital Media Lab are working through dual enrollment courses while students continue to build their Vermont Arts Portfolios for IRC recognition. Lastly, Design, Engineering & Fabrication students will be welcoming VMEC for a day-long training in LEAN Manufacturing principles.
These certifications and licenses have a lot of value in building students’ resumes and college applications, aiding in students applying for work right out of high school, and acting as a symbol of all of the transferable skills that go into preparation. All of these credentials are built on a solid foundation of academic skills, technical abilities, critical thinking, and problem solving. These skills will benefit students in these specific fields, and in any field they may find a new interest in their career paths or in higher education. Stepping into assessments while still in high school takes courage.
We certainly appreciate the students’ continued efforts, and faculty’s dedication, to preparing students for these culminating credentials.
Thank you for continuing to support your students through their pathway at BTC! Be well.
-Jason Reed
Annual Family Survey
Please take a moment to complete the Family Annual Survey. BSD values your feedback and perspective on you and your child’s experience in our district and at our school. If you need language support to access the survey, please contact your Multilingual Liaison. Responses are used to measure our progress on our Strategic Plan, inform professional development and training, and to identify bright spots and areas of need. Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey!
NTHS
Highlights from TESOL 2024 Conference
The recent TESOL 2024 Conference held in Tampa, Florida, from March 21st to March 23rd, was attended by BTC's English language instructors Dan Capps, Emily Kayoi, and Yvonne Sonoda. The event gathered participants from across the globe to explore emerging trends and pertinent topics in English language teaching.
Among the focal points, AI emerged as a leading subject, sparking discussions on leveraging its potential to support English language learners while upholding academic integrity. Other important topics included vocabulary-building strategies, trauma-informed teaching, writing instruction, immigration law, engaging with families, restorative practice, and working with content teachers.
This experience will help our EL team to broaden their language teaching toolbox, hone instructional strategies, and share expertise with program instructors to best support our diverse student population.
Save the Date!
BTC's Recognition Night (graduation) will be held on Tuesday, June 11th at 7:00 p.m. at UVM's Ira Allen Chapel. All students who are finishing 2-year programs at BTC will be invited, as well as all of the students finishing the 1-year Introduction to Health Care program. We look forward to celebrating with students and their families!
Exploring Photography: From Digital to Film!
Last month, the Pre-Tech students explored the captivating world of photography. They learned about the art of shaping light and mastering studio equipment to capture captivating portraits. With Adobe Photoshop as their toolkit, they honed their editing skills. Students experimented with both digital and analog equipmentment, including loading rolls and mixing developer chemicals. Here's to the budding photographers of tomorrow!
In our Automotive Science and Technology program, students completed Automotive Tire Service Training programs through TIA. The ATS programs cover all aspects of passenger/light truck tire service. With hands-on training, TIA ensures that these students are equipped with the skills to keep customers safe and satisfied while also practicing vital skills for personal and career development. Students learn to prioritize safety, customer satisfaction, and excellence in automotive service with TIA's Automotive Tire Service Training.
Big Wins at Vermont HOSA Competitions!
Stacey Ladd
Stacey Ladd has been teaching in the Health Sciences Academy since 2018 and was BTC's teacher of the year for 2023. Most recently, she was also recognized at UVM as a Vermont Outstanding Educator. She won’t hesitate to let you know that this is her dream job. She is excited to share her passion for health science, and to support students in rising to the challenge of the three pillars of the program: college preparedness and dual enrollment credits, clinical shadowing opportunities, and ability to obtain certification in either phlebotomy or EMT.
The best part of Stacey’s year is getting to know new students, and seeing all of the growth in returning students. Throughout the two-year program, students have the chance to explore a huge variety of healthcare pathways, through clinicals, field trips, guest speakers, HOSA and more. Most importantly, Stacey hopes students in the HSA program feel that “they are part of a community of like-minded individuals who care about and for one another. Truly, we become a family during our time together.”
Monica Beard-Raymond
Health Sciences Academy instructor Monica Beard thinks the human body is beautifully complex, and knows that her students share that awe and amazement of the human body. She hopes that students feel curious and engaged, and see for themselves that being a healthcare provider is “both an honor and a responsibility.” From teaching the fundamentals to testing for their IRCs, witnessing the growth of confidence in students moves and inspires her.
Monica loves to hear from students about their clinical experiences. Students are shadowing providers in so many different areas of healthcare, and have the had to opportunity to: examine lab specimens, be present at outpatient procedures such as cataract surgery and dermatology excisions, and attend the birth of babies, both vaginal and cesarean. Monica knows that these experiences are deeply formative: “Health sciences professions are a mix of science and art, academics and action, people skills and critical thinking skills.”
To learn more about the Health Sciences Academy, visit the program page on the BTC website via the link here.
Excelling in Work-Based Learning
Evan, a student enrolled in Design, Engineering, & Fabrication, is currently immersed in work-based learning at Tri-Angle in Milton. Evan's dedication and skills have earned him high praise from the company. They're so impressed with his work that they're hoping he'll consider delaying his college plans to continue contributing to their projects. The company is also actively supporting Evan's interests by providing opportunities for him to learn about machinery he's keen on exploring. Evan's journey exemplifies the importance of passion, dedication, and hands-on experience in shaping future professionals.
The Unique Experience of Our Adult Aerospace and Aviation Program
In our Adult Aerospace and Aviation Program, students enjoy a distinctive advantage: direct interaction with an instructor who is not only a certified Airframe and Powerplant expert but also an experienced flight instructor and co-founder of the Vermont Flight Academy. Moses Daly, our instructor, occasionally treats students to exhilarating rides in his plane, enhancing their learning experience with firsthand exposure to aviation. This unique opportunity enables them to translate theoretical knowledge into practical applications, deepening their understanding of aerospace principles. Moses Daly's multifaceted role bridges the gap between classroom instruction and real-world practice, ensuring students receive a comprehensive, hands-on education that equips them for success in the aviation industry.
Neurodiversity Unveiled: Building Inclusive Communities offers a transformative journey through four comprehensive online classes designed to deepen understanding and foster inclusion. This series of courses runs every Saturday in April and is completely free to register due to a generous grant from the VT Department of Labor. Recordings of each session will be available to each participant for up to 30 days after the course has ended.
"Exploring Neurodiversity: Embracing Differences" (April 6, 2024)
- Delve into the diverse world of neurodiversity with this enlightening series. From ADHD to autism, uncover the spectrum of neurological differences and gain valuable insights into the unique perspectives they offer. Embrace the richness of human variation and learn to celebrate the strengths inherent in neurodiversity.
"Understanding Neurodiversity: Navigating the Spectrum" (April 13, 2024)
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of neurodiversity and its impact through this insightful series. Explore the intricacies of various neurological profiles, from dyslexia to sensory processing differences, and learn how to navigate the spectrum with empathy and understanding. Develop practical strategies for supporting neurodiverse individuals in all facets of life.
"Neurodiversity and Disability Rights: Advocating for Inclusion" (April 20, 2024)
- Join us in advocating for the rights of neurodiverse individuals with this empowering workshop. Explore the intersection of neurodiversity and disability rights, uncovering key legal frameworks and advocacy strategies. Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to promote inclusion, challenge stigma, and create a more equitable society for all.
"Creating a Neuro-Inclusive Workplace: Fostering Success for All" (April 27, 2024)
- Transform your workplace into a neurodiverse-friendly environment with this essential series. Discover practical approaches for creating inclusive policies, accommodations, and support systems that empower neurodiverse employees to thrive. Learn how fostering neuro-inclusion not only benefits individuals but also enhances organizational performance and innovation.
