Expanding a zoo? Innovation Tech students present to BOCES Board

If you need to expand a zoo, students at Innovation Tech have your answer. Three students from the cutting-edge OCM BOCES high school in Liverpool presented their project, called “At Home in my Biome,” during a recent meeting of the BOCES Board of Education. The students tackled a possible expansion project for The Wild Animal Park in Chittenango, which has boomed in popularity. The students conducted research, developed an interactive map and created a model habitat for their proposed new animal – a red panda -- using the Minecraft video game. At the Board meeting, students gave Board members a virtual tour of their proposed habitat, which included climbing branches, a nesting box and toys.
 
In the photo, from left to right, are Corey Edwards of the Baldwinsville Central School District, Melissa Hordies of West Genesee High School, and William Warwick of Liverpool High School. Teachers Dave Sampson (far right) and Lauren Baldwin also attended.
 
Innovation Tech High School, which opened in September 2014, is the first of its kind in Central New York. Teachers and other staff use a project-based learning approach, which requires students to work in teams, creatively solve problems and work hand-in-hand with local businesses. All students at Innovation Tech earn college credit, participate in internships and give back to their communities through service learning.