Windsor Central High School students took immediate steps toward their futures on Thursday, whether their plans include college or immediate entry into the workforce.

WCHS’ Class of 2025 was instantly admitted to SUNY Broome during the shared admission event, the Windsor CSD/SUNY Broome College Express Partnership. This is the sixth year of the College Express Partnership. Windsor Central High School’s Class of 2020 became the first full class in history to be immediately admitted to SUNY Broome.

“Our students have a great opportunity to continue their post-secondary education at an establishment that has supported our community and students for many years. Some students stress about getting enrolled in college and this is a great event that takes that stress away. Regardless of if they get into another college, they will have the opportunity to continue their education beyond high school,” said Toby Youngs, Windsor Central High School principal.

“It gave me an insight into what college life will be like. It showed me the light at the end of the tunnel, brought down my stress about it,” said Frank DiGuilio, who plans to study business at SUNY Broome.

Windsor students can also engage in free “learning workshops” during their senior year, regardless of whether they choose to attend SUNY Broome. Workshop topics will include such topics as scholarships, financial aid, advising, housing, placement assessment, and more.

32% of WCHS Class of 2024 attended SUNY Broome.

“College Express is a partnership with the district to provide students the opportunity to go to the college that is committed to their community close by regardless of what their plan happens to be. This event provides access to degrees or just a few classes depending on what’s right for the student, no matter when they want to take advantage of it,” said Owen Conklin, SUNY Broome Director of Admissions.

Immediately following this event, WCHS hosted a job fair in the gymnasium with over 20 employers, including Frito Lay, Willow Run Foods, and United Health Services. 

“We’re looking for potential employees. We have great starting opportunities for our front-line team, great pay, and benefits in a manufacturing and warehouse environment. We have a wide variety of roles to choose from and a lot of career opportunities,” said Kylah Gaul, Warehouse department manager at Frito Lay, Kirkwood.

Benjamin Reed takes welding classes at Windsor and BOCES in hopes of making it a career

“I’m trying to look at a welding employer. I want to know what I’d be doing for most of the day, production welding or different things. I want to know the hourly rate,” said Reed.

WCHS senior Sophia Abbatiello wants to be a nurse practitioner focused on cardiology

“I’m trying to get a peek into what I’d be going to college for and what I’d end up doing after instead of being blindsided,” said Abbatiello. “They both set you up for up for success. If you go to SUNY, they’ll pay for tuition. UHS said they’d pay me while I’m learning what I want to do.”

“To couple College Express Day with the job fair to allow our students to explore careers for students considering going right into the workforce after school, it’s a fantastic day for our students,” said Mr. Youngs. “This is one step toward fulfilling our mission to have our students be future-ready.”