BOCES Career and Technical Education PROGRAMs

Nursing Assistant

Make a real difference in people’s lives—starting now. Through hands-on patient care and classroom learning, you’ll build the skills to support nurses, assist patients, and begin your path in the healthcare field with confidence and compassion.

Learn how to lift, move, comfort, and care for patients in real healthcare settings. This one-year program prepares you for certification, employment, or further nursing education—whether you're headed to a hospital, nursing home, or beyond.

Life long learning

Learn by Doing. Care by Heart.

In this senior-only program, you’ll split time between classroom learning and hands-on clinical experience. You’ll gain bedside care skills by working directly with patients in local healthcare facilities, learning everything from vital signs and nutrition to infection control and mobility support. Along the way, you’ll build the empathy, professionalism, and confidence that every healthcare team needs.

Nursing Assitant at a Glance

Direct Care
Provide direct care to patients in healthcare facilities as part of your training.
CNA Prep
Graduate eligible to take the NYS Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam.

College and Career Ready

This one-year, senior-only program is designed for motivated students preparing for medical school or other healthcare training. You’ll earn both academic and technical credit while exploring diverse fields like physical therapy, psychiatry, nursing, and pharmacy. Graduate ahead of the curve—academically and professionally.

We have articulation agreements with Jefferson Community College and Mohawk Valley Community College.

BOCES students also have the opportunity to earn up to 20 credits towards a two-year, AOS Business Degree at Jefferson Community College.

Handbooks

Want to learn more and get a head start? Download the Nursing Assistant Handbook and Skills Packet for detailed information on course expectations, procedures, and the essential skills you’ll be practicing.

Nursing Assistant Instructors

Charles H. Bohlen, Jr. Technical Center:

Lyn Smith lynsmith@boces.com

Howard G. Sackett Technical Center:

Cynthia Lapp clapp@boces.com

Wendy Dunn wdunn@boces.com

Health Occupations Coordinator:

Cynthia Lapp: clapp@boces.com