Multiple new, exciting programs have been established in collaboration with component districts in the Wayne-Finger Lakes Region for the 2025-2026 school year. 

As a way to provide access to opportunities and support student needs, multiple new, exciting programs have been established in collaboration with component districts in the Wayne-Finger Lakes Region for the 2025-2026 school year. 

At Marion Central School District, the new Agripath Program is a partnership with W-FL BOCES that offers instruction based in agriculture that’s open to students in other Wayne County districts. This first-year program offers full-day and hands-on instruction for freshmen that fulfill graduation requirements with studies related to agriculture and outdoors education. 

Currently, students from a neighboring district enrolled in the Agripath program and Marion officials are excited about the start with an optimistic outlook for growth as word of the new program spreads. 

“Students from all over Wayne County now have access to hands-on, career-focused education during their ninth grade academic year,” said Marion Principal Shane Dehn. “Class sizes are smaller than typical and many of the course curriculums have been adjusted to tailor to students that are interested in agricultural topics. What started as an idea has blossomed into an emerging program that can improve the educational experience for the youth of Wayne County.” 

The Intro to Ag course allows students to explore a general overview of the field with the goal of identifying a specific area of interest as the student advances. Projects this year have students learning more about grain farming, welding and reptiles. 

“Agripath represents a unique opportunity for students who are looking for a high school pathway that focuses on a hands-on approach to learning with an agriculture focus,” said Marion Superintendent Dr. Ellen Lloyd. “Marion is excited to share the strengths of our agriculture program with students from other districts in the region through this collaboration with W-FL BOCES.” 

Lynne Rutnik, Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES District Superintendent and CEO, said partnerships like these between our component districts and BOCES help to elevate student opportunities and educational experiences throughout our region.  

“In alignment with the New York State Education Department’s Portrait of a Graduate, we’re committed to ensuring every student becomes a future-ready, adaptable, and innovative learner,” said Superintendent Rutnik. “As our region faces declining enrollment and funding, partnerships between districts and BOCES are essential to keep collaborating and innovating so that every student — regardless of zip code — has access to high-quality programs that prepare them to thrive in the future workforce.” 

In addition to the Agripath program at Marion, Bloomfield Central School District opened classrooms to students from across the Wayne-Finger Lakes region who attend Midlakes Education Center programs. Thanks to this partnership, 10 students have been placed in two Bloomfield classrooms this fall.  

From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., these students, ranging from kindergarten to second grade, are strengthening their skills in a classroom environment. 

“They’re learning how to be in school,” said Program Director Tamara Jones who calls this program “a true collaboration” between school, parents and BOCES, all working together for the good of the students. 

During the school day, the students have access to occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech language and counseling services. They also receive art and physical education from Bloomfield teachers and attend a music therapy class with the program’s Finger Lakes Elementary School teacher who visits once a week. 

In addition, the students and staff have adopted the Bloomfield traits of being kind, safe, respectful and responsible. Just like other Bloomfield elementary schoolers, they work on these skills in the classroom and in the hallways, where they have opportunities for interactions with other students and staff.  

“Everyone has been very accommodating,” said Jones. “They have been nothing but fantastic and gracious.” That includes the maintenance and food staff, as well as Superintendent Andy Doell, who can be found most mornings in the bus loop, greeting the W-FL BOCES students as they get off the bus. 

“I have been so proud of how our faculty and staff have embraced BOCES faculty and staff, as well as the students who are attending this program,” said Superintendent Doell. “To know that we played a small part in affording students in the region the programs they need makes me feel good.” 

Similarly, at North Rose-Wolcott Central School District, an on-site Alternative Tutoring option has been established to better support student needs. With experienced tutors, flexible scheduling, customized lessons and proven results, it serves as an additional partnership bringing the right tools to the doorstep of students in need.

“Through our collective regionalization efforts, we have been able to expand and strengthen opportunities for students across the region,” said Lisa Meade, W-FL BOCES Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning. 

“We are deeply grateful to the Superintendents and Principals in each district for their support and partnership in making these efforts possible,” said Ms. Meade. “Building new programs is never seamless or linear, but this collective work is vital in ensuring that students have access to the opportunities and supports they deserve across our region.”