@GST BOCES Bush Education Center

459 Philo Road, Elmira
Please note: There is no charge for courses at the Bush Education Center.

Dressing and Dips: Let's Party! (Grades 7-8)

Students will learn about dressing and dips. Students will begin the week learning about emulsion and making mayo. Each day, student will experience making different classic dressings and dips from around the world. In the culinary kitchen, students will prepare ingredients and follow recipes from around the world to prepare some dips and dressings. Students will learn how to properly use small kitchen equipment and learn good kitchen sanitation.

Car Crazy (Grades 8-10)

We will explore technical and engineering careers in the automotive field. Students will build a "visible" model of a 4-cylinder engine and compare it to a real engine we will look inside of. Students also will take a close-up look at vintage cars that represent advances in technology during the last century. In the shop, students will learn the basics of automotive maintenance, including oil change service, disc brake replacement and mounting new tires using professional shop equipment. Students also will explore automotive electronics and learn about basic electrical concepts by constructing simple lighting circuit. The class will wire a car stereo setup to see how it works, as well as use professional-level scan tools to read diagnostic trouble codes in actual vehicles. In-between we'll have some fun car-based activities, such as RC drift cars and vintage slot car racing

Explore Pizzas in the USA (Grades 9-10)

Students will explore pizza from across the USA by learning about the different type of pizzas that are famous in different areas of our country and the secret science behind their dough production. These will include iconic pizzas such as New York style, Chicago style, flat bread pizza and California pizza.
Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.

Wilderness Exploration Studies (Grades 7-10)

Engage in hands-on activities, including crafting projects from wood such as bird houses, bat houses, and duck houses. Learn proper orienteering techniques and fish identification skills during fishing sessions at BOCES ponds. Lessons on conservation and animal science are included. The final assessment will challenge students to race to a location using only a compass, make a lean-to, make a fire, catch a fish, and cook s'mores as a group.

Picture This! Photography Basics (Grades 7-10)

Explore fundamental photography techniques, from mastering composition and exposure to understanding light and shadow. Projects include TypoPhoto photography, studio portrait sessions, still life photography, green screen magic, and light painting. This hands-on program fosters creativity, technical skill, and a unique perspective.

Pit Crew Challenge/Valve Cover Racers (Grades 7-10)

Build pit crew teams and valve cover racers using mechanical engineering. Learn to run a tire machine and balancer, participate in pit row contests, and build a foundation for shop safety and industry standards.

Creative Ventures: Exploring Digital Media (Grades 7-10)

Creative Ventures invites students to dive into the exciting world of digital media. This program blends photography fundamentals with hands-on product creation, where students will design and produce custom coffee mugs, T-shirts and other items using dye sublimation. Participants also will learn the basics of keyframe animation and video production, from filming to editing, and explore the creative potential of digital photography combine with green screen technology. Through diverse projects and expert guidance, students will develop a well-rounded understanding of digital media tools and techniques, empowering them to bring their creative visions to life.
Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.

Building Sheroes (Girls, Grades 6-8)

Join us for Building Sheroes, where middle school girls from all backgrounds are invited to find their voice, build confidence and connect with others in a fun, empowering environment. Through creative activities, inspiring speakers and hands-on workshops, Building Sheroes will help you discover the strength within, make lasting friendships and unlock your full potential. Let's create, speak up and grow together!

Cupcake Decorating (Grades 8-10)

Students will have a basic understanding of baking and pastry techniques. They will understand the process and science behind making different types of batters and making them rise. They will have a general understanding of basic decorating techniques. Students will discuss marketing and analyze their own cupcakes each day to see if they are sellable. Students will have the skills and techniques for successfully baking and pastries to design market worthy cupcakes.
Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.

The Sound Lab: Explore the World of Audio Production (Grades 7-10)

Unleash your inner sound engineer and storyteller in "The Sound Lab,"" a hands-on exploratory program that dives into the world of audio production. Students will create immersive sensory soundscapes, bring characters to life through voice-over recording, master microphone techniques and manipulate audio software to craft captivating sound effects and music. Through these exciting projects, you'll learn the fundamentals of audio technology and narrative storytelling, culminating in the creation and recording of your very own podcast show based on your interests and discussions. Get ready to amplify your creativity and make some noise!
Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.

Just the Facts - Careers in Criminal Justice (Grades 9-10)

Ever watch a cop, firefighter or court drama on TV? How much is real? How much is Hollywood? Students in this summer program will investigate five specific jobs within the criminal justice field. They will learn the myth versus reality of a 911 dispatcher, firefighter, police officer, CSI technician and lawyer. They also will practice communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills as they investigate a mock crime, document the evidence, and participate in a mock trial. Along the way, they will learn to use some of the real tools of the trade - portable radios, body-worn cameras, handcuffs, fire extinguishers, fingerprinting supplies and other items. Students will have the chance to meet a real dispatcher, firefighter, police officer and attorney to learn more about each career path.
Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.

The Barnyard Bunch @GST BOCES (Grades 7-8)

Are you entering Grade 7-8 and want to unleash your inner animal scientist this summer? Join the GST BOCES Animal Science Summer Academy. Explore the fascinating world of animals: from the tiniest insect to the majestic alpaca, this immersive program offers a fun and hands-on learning experience for students who are passionate about animals.
What awaits you?

• Become a Creature Detective: Embark on nature hikes where you'll learn about animal habitats and explore the diverse life teeming in our local environment. Put your detective skills to the test by collecting and analyzing pond water samples and uncovering the secrets hidden within owl pellets.
• Animal Buddies: Spend quality time with our friendly classroom and barn animals, learning about their care, behavior and unique needs. Get hands-on experience using specialized equipment to monitor their health and well-being.
• Science in Action: Throughout the program, you'll gain valuable scientific skills while using microscopes to analyze samples, scales and measuring tapes to monitor animal health and dissecting tools and identification keys for owl pellet dissection.

Imagination in Motion: Intro to Stop Motion Animation (Grades 7-10)

Dive into the world of stop-motion animation! This one-week program will teach the fundamentals of frame-by-frame filmmaking, from storyboarding and story building to capturing and editing your own short animated film. No prior experience needed, just bring your creativity! Students will gain practical experience in the production process, prop construction, lighting, DSLR camera operation and video editing. Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.

Emergency Management: Are You Ready? (Grades 9-10)

What would you do if you were in an emergency situation? In a fire, flood, tornado or terrorist attack, would you stay calm? Are you ready? Do you have a plan? This summer program will cover basic preparedness skills and emergency management knowledge that every young adult should have. Students will learn how to prepare for weather and water emergencies, fires, motor vehicle accidents and wilderness survival. They will practice basic skills to help them be ready to prepare, prevent, respond, recover and mitigate emergencies in the future.
Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day. Special Note: This program covers most objectives for the Scout Emergency Management Merit Badge

Intro to Game Design (Grades 7-10)

Video games are among the fastest growing forms of entertainment of the age and are as varied in scope and design as those that play them. During this workshop, we will discuss the history and influence of games on our pop culture. Students will then have the opportunity to delve into game design firsthand, learning the process of game development and using RPGmaker to create their own video game levels. At the end of the class, students will be able to take their finished game home, as well as the save files to continue development on their own if they wish. Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day

Lights, Camera, Create!: Filmmaking in Action (Grades 7-10)

"Lights, Camera, Create!: Filmmaking in Action" is an immersive summer program designed for seventh- through tenth-graders ready to bring their stories to life through video. Students will delve into the art of narrative development, scripting compelling scenes and visually planning their projects with storyboarding, all leading to the creation of a short film using professional 4K camcorders. Through hands-on experience, they'll master essential filmmaking techniques, including composition, camera movements, distances and angles. Finally, students will harness the power of non-linear video editing with Adobe Premiere to assemble their footage, adding music, sound effects and basic animation to craft a polished cinematic piece.
Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.

@GST BOCES Coopers Education Center

9579 Vocational Drive, Painted Post
Please note: There is no charge for courses at the Coopers Education Center.

Let's Go Racing (Grades 7-10)

Students will operate our tire machines and learn to operate our two post lifts. Students will be introduced to power and hand tools, basic cutting tools and possibly some light welding. We hope to do some single cylinder small engine work and potentially do some work on a junior go cart. There may be an opportunity to go to the Seneca Grand Prix Go-Kart track and race it. We also will be building valve cover racers and students will compete against each other with the vehicles they build on our track.

Salon Chic Summer Academy (Grades 7-10)

Do you enjoy making people feel better about themselves? Come to GST BOCES Cosmetology Summer Academy at the Coopers Campus. Each student will learn the importance of hygiene and sanitation, braiding, manicuring, pedicuring and plain facials. Summer of Innovation students will get to work one-on-one with senior students from the Cosmetology program.

Baking Boot Camp I (Grades 9-10)

Baking Boot Camp is a hands-on, week-long camp focused on teaching the fundamentals of baking from measuring and mixing to decorating and plating. Campers will explore different types of baked goods, understand the science behind baking and develop skills in precision and creativity. Team challenges will encourage collaboration and problem solving using fun baking contests.

• Day 1: Baking Basics and Quick Breads - Introduction to baking tools, measurements, techniques and develop an understanding of leavening agents.
• Day 2: Baking Basics and Quick Breads - Recipes include scones and muffins
• Day 3: Yeast Breads - Understand the science of yeast and gluten development and learn techniques such as kneading, proofing and shaping.
• Day 4: Yeast Breads - Recipes include dinner rolls, focaccia and cinnamon rolls

SoundScape Studios (Grades 8-10)

Step into Soundscape Studios and embark on an adventure into the world of sound! During four days, you’ll unlock the secrets of sound design using Adobe Audition, crafting everything from immersive soundscapes to your own podcast. Explore the art of creating realistic sound effects, producing catchy beats and mastering the microphone. Whether you’re a storyteller, music lover or tech enthusiast, this hands-on journey will teach you the skills to bring your sound ideas to life. Get ready to discover the power of sound and turn your creativity into captivating audio projects. Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.

Shockingly Fun Discoveries (Grades 7-8)

Students will be introduced to how electricity is made, how it plays a role in their everyday life and how to wire simple circuits. This camp will explore natural energy sources and get students thinking about where their electricity comes from. At the conclusion, students will be able to wire and play with a jumbo version of the board game, Operation. There may be an opportunity to take a field trip to a local natural energy farm (wind or solar).

PhotoQuest: Mastering the Lens (Grades 8-10)

Step into PhotoQuest: Mastering the Lens, where photography meets creativity! Learn to frame the perfect shot, experiment with lighting and effects and create mind-blowing images using reflections, long exposure and green screen magic. From dramatic portraits to surreal green screen effects and jaw-dropping trick shots, you'll learn how to capture the perfect image. Every day, you'll walk away with a new skill and a printed masterpiece of your work. Are you ready to capture the extraordinary? Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.

Baking Boot Camp II (Grades 9-10)

Baking Boot Camp II is an extension of Boot Camp I, a week-long hands-on camp focused on teaching the fundamentals of baking from measuring and mixing to decorating and plating. Campers will explore different types of baked goods, understand the science behind baking and develop skills in precision and creativity. Team challenges will encourage collaboration and problem solving using fun baking contests.

• Day 1: Pastries and Pies - Understand laminated doughs and flaky crusts, and master techniques such as folding, chilling and blind baking
• Day 2: Pastries and Pies - Recipes include fruit tarts and hand pies
• Day 3: Cakes and Cupcakes - Understand creaming method vs. sponge method and learn techniques such as layering, frosting and piping
• Day 4: Cakes and Cupcakes - Recipes include classic vanilla and chocolate cake batter and butter cream frosting, as well as learning piping skills

Animate This! Stop-Motion Madness (Grades 7-10)

Get ready to unleash your creativity in an exciting five-day stop-motion animation experience! You'll dive into the world of storytelling, building everything from scratch - characters, sets and even the plot of your very own movie. Using powerful Adobe software and DSLR cameras, you'll learn how to bring your wildest ideas to life frame by frame. With a mix of fun challenges and hands-on production, you'll craft an epic animated film, complete with sound effects and music. Whether you're a master storyteller or a first-time animator, this class is all about pushing the limits of your imagination and seeing your vision come to life in motion! Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.

Global Flavors Tour I (Grades 9-10)

The Global Flavors Tour I is a week-long, hands-on culinary exploration of the world’s most vibrant cuisines. Each day, campers will focus on the flavors, ingredients and cooking techniques of a different country or region. Through hands-on cooking, they will discover how food reflects culture and history, while expanding their palates and building essential kitchen skills. Team challenges will encourage collaboration and problem solving using fun cooking demonstrations and contests.

• Day 1: Japan - Students will understand the significance of the balance of umami, sweet and salty flavors. Students will learn the proper handling of sushi rice and rolling sushi. Knife skills will be introduced.
• Day 2: Japan - Recipes include sushi and ramen.
• Day 3: Italy - Pizza, Pasta and Beyond - Cooking focus will be on fresh sauces and homemade pasta.
• Day 4: Italy - Recipes include fresh marinara, pesto, pasta, pizza dough and classic margherita pizza.

The 'Egg'citing World of Poultry (Grades 7-9)

Students will be actively engaged in exploring the interesting world of poultry and eggs. Students will get to observe hatching chicks, study the parts of an egg and learn about chicken characteristics. During the week, students will experiment with eggs in different egg-based recipes and taste their creations. There may be an opportunity to visit an actual chicken farm and learn about poultry health and husbandry.

Global Flavors Tour II (Grades 9-10)

The Global Flavors Tour II is a week-long, hands-on culinary exploration of the world's most vibrant cuisines. Each day, campers will focus on the flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques of a different country or region. Through hands-on cooking, they will discover how food reflects culture and history, while expanding their palates and building essential kitchen skills. Team challenges will encourage collaboration and problem solving using fun cooking demonstrations and contests.

• Day 1: Mexico - The cultural lesson is to understand the role of street food and markets in Mexican culture by exploring the bold spice and fresh ingredients by using techniques such as rolling tortillas, roasting peppers and blending salsas.
• Day 2: Mexico - Recipes include homemade tortillas with carne asada and grilled vegetables, pico de gallo and guacamole.
• Day 3: India - Spices and Curries: Students will learn the importance of spice blends and the regional curry variations. Cooking will focus on toasting and blending spices and techniques such as sauteing, simmering and marinating.
• Day 4: India - Recipes include butter chicken, garlic naan and basmati rice.

Craft Your Quest: Become a Game Designer (Grades 7-10)

Embark on an epic journey into the world of video game creation. In this hands-on adventure, you’ll design your own game from the ground up—crafting stories, building immersive worlds and learning the secrets behind the games you love to play. Whether you’re a storytelling wizard or a budding programmer, you’ll get to unleash your creativity using RPG Maker and dive into the exciting process of game development. Get ready for action-packed challenges, team collaborations and a final showcase of your very own game. The world of game design awaits— are you ready to level up? Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.

Creative Ventures: Unlock Your Digital Imagination! (Grades 7-10)

Get ready for an action-packed week where creativity meets technology! Seventh- through tenth-graders will dive into the world of digital art, photography and 3D modeling. They'll learn to blend photos like a pro, creating epic animal hybrids and mind-blowing scenes with green screen magic. But that's not all—students will bring their designs to life by creating custom buttons, mugs and 3D models that will be printed and ready to take home. Whether it's capturing stunning photos, designing your own fantasy world, or turning your art into real-world creations, this week is all about unleashing your imagination and creating something unforgettable! Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.

North American Wildlife (Grades 7-10)

Students will be introduced to various North American wildlife species that call our great Finger Lakes Region home. They will even make their own track identification booklet to take home for later ID practice. Students will hear from guest speakers about conservation and wildlife rehabilitation. Students also will get to dissect owl pellets and visit a local nature preserve.

@GST BOCES Wildwood Education Center

1126 Bald Hill Road, Hornell
Please note: There is no charge for courses at the Wildwood Education Center.

CSI (Grades 8-10)

Participants of this academy will learn through a variety of methods to include; short lectures, “hands-on� activities and role-playing. Each day will include a short mystery that students must solve or forensic lab.

Game Design Foundations (Grades 7-10)

Do you love video games? Ever wanted to make your own RPG? This summer, dive into a four-day adventure where you'll learn to design characters, build worlds, craft epic stories and bring it all to life with RPG Maker MZ. No coding experience? No problem! Our expert instructors will guide you step-by-step as you create your very own playable game. Whether you're a beginner or a future game dev, this camp is your quest to game-making greatness.

Backhoes and Excavators 101 (Grades 8-10)

Students will learn basic construction and equipment safety. Students will be learning the basics of building layout and excavation in conjunction with excavator and backhoe operation techniques.

Cosmetology (Grades 7-10)

In the 2025 Cosmetology Summer of Innovation, SOI learners will explore techniques in manicuring with gel polish, as well as shampooing, conditioning, blow drying, flat ironing, demi-permanent coloring, hair tinsel application and creating updos. Summer of Innovation learners will work one-on-one with senior Cosmetology students, as well as Cosmetology teachers.

America Runs on Business (Grades 7-10)

America Runs on Business is an introduction to the world of business. Students will have the opportunity to explore the different careers in business and learn the different types of industries. In addition, students will create, build and market their own business by creating their own business card in Word, create a flyer in Canva, and build a business using craft sticks. Finally, students will learn how to maintain a checking account, practice using an ATM card with an online simulator, balance a checkbook ledger and how to read a checking account statement. All students will benefit from this program, regardless of career interests because America Runs on Business!

The Sandwich Club (Grades 7-10)

he history, cultural significance and variety of sandwiches enjoyed around the globe. Students will learn about different types of bread, fillings, spreads and toppings, as well as the nutritional aspects of creating balanced sandwiches. Through hands-on activities, students will have the opportunity to design and create their own unique sandwiches, experimenting with flavors and textures. By the end of the course, students will gain confidence in their culinary skills and a newfound appreciation for this versatile and convenient meal option.

Noodle Palooza (Grades 7-10)

In this class, students will embark on a flavorful journey into the world of ramen noodles, a beloved dish with rich cultural history and diverse variations. They will learn about the origins of ramen, its different styles and the significance of this dish in Japanese cuisine and beyond. Students will engage in hands-on cooking sessions in which they explore various types of ramen noodles, broths and toppings. The class will emphasize the importance of flavor balance, presentation and the art of creating a delicious bowl of ramen from scratch. Participants also will experiment with unique ingredients and techniques, allowing them to create their own signature ramen dishes. By the end of the course, students will have the skills and confidence to prepare authentic and creative ramen noodle dishes, as well as a deeper appreciation for this iconic comfort food.

Intro to Welding (Grades 7-10)

This comprehensive two-week welding program is designed for beginners to get hands-on experience in welding, plasma cutting and essential skills needed to succeed in the welding and fabrication industry. Students will develop both technical and practical knowledge, while emphasizing safety and teamwork. Special Note: Appropriate clothing and footwear is required for welding in the shop. Special Note: Students should bring a packed lunch each day.