Currently, BAVTS students are taking pre-NOCTI tests. NOCTI stands for National Occupational Competency Testing Institute. These national exams measure students’ proficiency in their shop areas, using both computer assessments and practical skill demonstrations. Employers value students who score well on NOCTI tests because they demonstrate high levels of technical knowledge and skill in their trade areas.

BAVTS is emphasizing a Problem-Based Learning, (PBL), model for student learning and achievement this year. Hallmarks of PBL include student identification of real-life questions they would like to answer or problems they would like to solve, collaboration, academic rigor, relevance and creativity. As students’ progress with the PBL approach, they will be able to apply their ideas and solutions in their communities and workplaces.

On Thursday, April 6, Canadian police officer and author Brett Calman will be visiting BAVTS and giving a presentation on his experiences in law enforcement, as chronicled in his book, “My Road to the Badge.” During the fall semester, several programs at BAVTS read and discussed “My Road to the Badge.” Calman has also written several other books, including murder mysteries.

On May 10, BAVTS will be hosting its annual Co-Op breakfast, for students who are on field experiences and their employers. BAVTS takes great pride in the achievements of its Co-Op. students and is thankful to the local businesses which provide these valuable work experiences.

On March 3, students in the welding program competed in the American Welding Society (AWS) competition at Northampton Community College. Quintin Karsan, a senior at Freedom HS, and Zachary Meyers, a senior at Saucon Valley HS, participated. Results of the competition were announced March 28.

On March 8, BAVTS hosted its annual Career/College Fair. More than 20 local businesses, colleges and trade schools were represented, as well as the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. Students were able to share their knowledge and resumes with employment, military and college representatives. Also, students discovered a variety of career paths and job opportunities, and identified the specific job skills employers are seeking.

Several programs at BAVTS, including Health Careers and Protective Services, have joined HOSA, an international organization for future health professionals, founded in 1976. According to its official website, “HOSA is an international student organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Health Science Education (HSE) Division of ACTE. HOSA’s two-fold mission is to promote career opportunities in the healthcare industry and to enhance the delivery of quality healthcare to all people. HOSA’s goal is to encourage all health science instructors and students to join and be actively involved in the HSE-HOSA Partnership.”