BOCES Nursing Program Honored By State Association

A state organization that promotes and advocates for rural health care has recognized the BOCES Adult Education Department for their work in advancing health care in the region.  

The New York State Association for Rural Health (NYSARH) recently bestowed its 2025 Outstanding Rural Health Program of the Year award to the BOCES Adult Practical Nursing program. The Outstanding Rural Health Program Award recognizes a program that promotes or facilitates the development of the rural healthcare delivery system.  

BOCES was honored for the creation and implementation of the brand-new Army Medic to Practical Nursing program, an expedited five-month practical nursing program tailored to Army medics who are leaving the service and would like a career in health care as a civilian.BOCES collaborated with Ft. Drum in creating and promoting this new program,which will offer its first semester of study beginning in September 2026.

NYSARH credited the program for reducing redundancy and providing a clear care path that helps retain veterans locally, fills nursing shortages, and boosts the regional healthcare workforce and economy. They further touted the model as one that can be replicated across New York State and beyond.

For more information about the Adult Practical Nursing and Army Medic to Practical Nursing programs,please visit the respective links below

Adult Practical Nursing: www.boces.com/nursing

Army Medic to Practical Nursing: www.boces.com/armynurse

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