Orange-Ulster BOCES

OUB is celebrating America's 250th anniversary by bringing history to life!

Students in grades 1–5 from schools across our region participated in hands-on candle-making sessions, where they explored traditional colonial craftsmanship, resourcefulness, and daily life in early America. Each student customized their candle by choosing their own pigments and scents before comparing modern candle-making techniques with those used in the 1700s.

To extend the learning, students received OUB America 250 activity books, designed to reinforce key historical concepts. It was a memorable, interactive experience that connected students with America's past in a fun and meaningful way.

Next up in the Colonial Life Family Craft Series is soap making!

🇺🇸 Celebrate America 250 with OUB's FREE Family Craft Series! 🇺🇸

Calling all Grade 1-5 students and their families! Join us this summer for hands-on colonial-inspired activities, interactive story time, and family fun.

Each session includes interactive history storytime, hands-on crafting, and snacks!

🕯️ CANDLE MAKING
Wed., July 29
Choose one 1-hour session:
• 10-11 AM
• 4:30-5:30 PM
Learn how colonial families lit their homes with beeswax, then create a candle to take home!

🧼 SOAP MAKING
Wed., Aug. 12
Choose one 1-hour session:
• 10-11 AM
• 4:30-5:30 PM
Discover the historical secrets of making soap from scratch then make your own bar!

Classes are held at Instructional Support Services on OUB's Arden Hill Campus, 4 Harriman Dr., Goshen (Use the side entrance).

Preregistration at http://tiny.cc/America250 is required. We can't wait to see you!

🌟OUB Alumni Spotlight: Julia Bevacqua, Class of 2023 🌟

Meet Julia Bevacqua, graduate of OUB's Marguerite A. Flood High School.

Now a Teacher Aide at OUB's Pine Island Elementary School Satellite, Julia is giving back to the OUB community that helped shape her, supporting young students with the same care, encouragement, and kindness she once received.

“I had such an amazing time in high school that I didn't want to leave. I was so in love with the community I found here, and I realized that the things OUB did for me, I could do for other students.”

Every day, Julia helps ensure that students learn, grow, and feel valued. Along the way, she's growing too, becoming more and more confident in her skills as an educator.

“I’m surrounded by such amazing people here. I can’t help but do great.”

🧡🎓💙Congratulations to the graduates of the Marguerite A. Flood Program and OUB! 🧡🎓💙

Today we celebrate your hard work, perseverance, and the incredible achievements that have brought you to this milestone. Your dedication and determination have led you to this moment, and your future is filled with endless possibilities.

We are so proud of all you have accomplished and can't wait to see the amazing things you'll do next. Congratulations, Class of 2026!

Congratulations to the graduates of OUB's John A. Flannery High School Program on their graduation!

For the first time, the commencement was held on the Learning Stairs, a beautiful new courtyard addition to the Arden Hill Campus and the perfect setting to celebrate the hard work, perseverance, and achievements of our graduates.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! We can't wait to see all you'll accomplish next! 💙🧡💙

Today, we proudly celebrate amazing graduates of OUB's Including Communities!

The Including Communities program empowers students ages 18–21 with the skills, confidence, and real-world experiences they need to successfully transition from school to adulthood.

From internships in retail and food service to hospitality, office work, groundskeeping, and volunteer service, these youn people have built valuable workplace skills while teamwork, responsibility, self-advocacy, money management, and independent living. Graduates leave the program with a résumé, references, experience, and the confidence that comes from knowing they are valued contributors to their workplaces and communities.

A big OUB thank you to our dedicated community partners, families, and local businesses for believing in our students 🧡 💙🧡

Congratulations to the graduates of The Academy at Arden Hill at Orange-Ulster BOCES!

A special highlight of the celebration was hearing teachers share something meaningful about each graduate, recognizing their unique strengths and accomplishments.

Every member of the Academy's Class of 2026 has built the knowledge and skills to go confidently into their next chapter, and we couldn't be more proud!

Congratulations to the graduates of the OUB Practical Nursing Program!

This milestone represents the successful completion of an intensive 12-course program that includes 1,104 hours of NYS-approved instruction and valuable clinical experience.

From hospitals and nursing homes to clinics, physicians' offices, and home health agencies, these proud graduates are poised to help meet the growing demand for skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals in the region.

We are so proud of you!

Today, we proudly celebrate the incredible graduates from OUB's STRIVE, Goshen Main Street, and Raymond C. Cramer programs!

Each of you has worked hard, overcome challenges, grown in so many ways, and reached an important milestone. Your determination, kindness, perseverance, and unique talents have inspired everyone who has had the privilege of being part of your journey.

Congratulations, graduates! Keep believing in yourselves, following your dreams, and shining your light! 💙🧡💙