Program #435
Exploratory Enrichment Services
Susan Kessler, 631/595-6814

Peggy Unger, 631/360-3652

The Exploratory Enrichment service facilitates experiences that extend beyond traditional classroom instruction.  Western Suffolk BOCES coordinates schedules and contracts for K-12 presentations, workshops, in-school programs and field trips.  Member districts can choose from an array of service providers whose programs reinforce NYS Learning Standards with content not found in standard classroom coursework.  Through this program, BOCES will:

• Maintain a database of enrichment activities by topic and grade level;
• Facilitate searches initiated by school personnel or parent-teacher representatives who seek appropriate sites for field trips, guest speakers or workshop presenters to provide enrichment experiences for students in K-12;
• Encourage the sharing of information between BOCES and schools by moderating a Facebook page for Exploratory Enrichment.
• Screen and evaluate programs for suitability as enrichment activities for different grade levels;
• Coordinate the scheduling of Exploratory Enrichment activities held in school buildings;
• Include a coordinating fee

Ideas for Exploratory Enrichment Programs

We have helped districts plan enriching experiences for their students on the topics listed below. Just click on the topic and you will find descriptions (and links to websites) of specific programs listed by grade level. If you have a need, an idea, or special topic, just call us and we will help with the research and planning!

How to Plan Exploratory Enrichment Programs

Option #1 for districts that have allocated funds for current school year.

• Contact the program and reserve your date.

• Tell program to send Western Suffolk BOCES the invoice for your activity.
• Complete appropriate form to request either Field Trip or
  In-School Program.
• Fax form to Peggy Unger at 631-623-4912 a minimum of 3 weeks in advance of program. (4 weeks in advance of prepaid programs)

Option #2 for districts wishing to start a new program with Western Suffolk BOCES Exploratory Enrichment Program

• Contact Peggy Unger at punger@wsboces.org or (631)360-3652
• Discuss program options
• Contact your School District Business Office/Superintendent’s Office, and request a contract letter be sent to Western Suffolk BOCES requesting your program and the amount the program costs.  Exploratory Enrichment staff can assist you with this procedure. No program can take place until your school district has requested your program in writing.
• After BOCES has received your official request letter, complete appropriate form to request either Field Trip or
  In-School Program.
• Fax form to Peggy Unger at 631-623-4912 a minimum of 3 weeks in advance of program. (4 weeks in advance of prepaid programs)

Verification

• Districts must verify with appropriate signatures ALL activities prior to program being paid.

• Field Trip Verification Form

• In-School Verification Form

• Send verifications to Peggy Unger:

• Email to punger@wsboces.org or

• Fax to (631) 623-4912

Evaluation

• Your feedback is very important to keep the integrity of the programs! We‘ve made it easy with this online Evaluation Form. Just complete and hit SUBMIT!