The New Visions in Education program at Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES, in partnership with SUNY Fredonia, is an immersive, one-year, senior-level program designed for motivated, college-bound students who are passionate about careers in education.

This academically rigorous program provides an unparalleled opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience while earning high school and college credits. This program will also prepare students for the NYS Teacher Assistant Certification exam.

Students engage in a dynamic curriculum that emphasizes critical skills such as communication, professionalism, emotional intelligence, and collaboration. They acquire foundational knowledge in education, enhance their written and oral communication abilities, and develop emotional intelligence essential for future success. Through structured field experiences in their district (or BOCES), students observe and work with students, teachers, and related professionals in diverse classroom settings. These early field experiences allow students to observe day-to-day operations and develop skills in classroom management, lesson planning, and data-driven instruction. Students also receive instruction on the history and philosophy of education, gaining a broad understanding of the profession’s impact on society.

The program provides a thorough exploration of the education profession, giving students insight into the roles of teachers, social workers, school psychologists, counselors, and administrators. Students interested in this competitive program should apply during their junior year and go through an application process that includes an online submission, two letters of recommendation, and an interview. Accepted students will be required to complete the SUNY Fredonia application for entry into their system. Upon completion of the program, students will be better equipped for college and career success, having experienced firsthand the rewards and challenges of completing college-level courses and working in education.

The New Visions in Education program is an ideal choice for students seeking to gain a competitive edge for college admissions while developing the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in careers dedicated to education.

• The New Visions in Education program proudly partners with SUNY Fredonia, providing students with the unique opportunity to attend classes on a college campus.
• Through this partnership, students will gain valuable exposure to the college environment and complete select courses taught by SUNY Fredonia faculty.
• This collaboration will allow students to experience higher education first-hand while earning college credits that can be applied to future degree programs.
• By attending classes on the SUNY Fredonia campus, students will also have access to college resources, including the library, food services, and student activities and events. This immersive experience gives students a head start in adjusting to college-level coursework and expectations, setting them up for future academic success.

• Opportunity to earn up to 18 college credits through 6 courses.
• SUNY Fredonia College credits earned are transferable to most post-secondary institutions.
• Credits can be applied toward degrees in education, human services, psychology, or related fields, depending on the receiving institution.

• For students interested in enrolling in a four-year school to earn a degree in teaching, successful completion of the New Visions in Education program with a cumulative high school average of 85 guarantees your acceptance into SUNY Fredonia’s College of Education, Health Sciences, and Human Services.
• By completing the New Visions in Education program, you will be positioned to enter the workforce immediately out of high school and prepared to take the NYS Teaching Assistant Certification exam.