Area eighth and ninth graders will have a massive opportunity thanks in part to a new collaboration between Sidney Central School and DCMO BOCES.

A new computer science program is being launched through DCMO BOCES -- the New Visions STEM Academy -- will use applied engineering and leading edge technology tools. The program is designed to prepare students to compete globally in a vast computer technology field that requires computational thinking.

In addition, students will have access to the existing Project Lead The Way (PLTW) program current Sidney students have with the anticipated expansion to the BioMedical program in the near future. The program is a multiple-year program that will also provide students with the vast number of college classes that Sidney currently offers.

The program is preliminarily being designed as a four-year half-day program. Students do have the ability to decide on participation each year, but the most academic benefit will come to those who start as accelerated 8th or 9th graders. Students will still participate in other activities in their home school, but will take the highly rigorous, college-prep engineering-based classes along with their state-mandated math and English courses with other students from area districts at Sidney High School.

Sidney is a leader in STEM education in the area with programs starting in elementary school and going through high school.

This successful collaboration between Sidney and DCMO BOCES will allow students access to a leading-edge lab with the newest technology tools, software and project-ready facilities.

Through this program, students will have the opportunity to earn college credits transferable to Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), and all SUNY colleges.

An information night is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 15 at the Sidney High School gym. For more information or to register, contact Sheri Kinsella at 607-561-7700, option 3 or visit Sidney Central Schools Facebook page to ask questions or get more information. Or you can visit www.dcmoboces.com and register online.