Alternatives for Children Dix Hills

At Wilson Tech's Dix Hills campus on Westminster Avenue, high school juniors and seniors spend half of each school day learning a trade and the other half at their home high school, with buses carrying them between the two. Wilson Tech is the career and technical education division of Western Suffolk BOCES and serves students from the 18 component districts in the Babylon, Smithtown and Huntington townships. Secondary programs at Dix Hills start with construction careers, which include architectural and interior design/CAD, carpentry, construction electricity, HVAC and plumbing, and welding. Students can also choose audio production, entertainment production, fashion design technology, medical assisting, nurse assisting, physical therapy aide and professional health careers, business and hospitality management, criminal justice, cosmetology, culinary arts, auto body repair, automotive technology, and electronics, robotics and automation. The campus also houses the Center for Alternative Education, a Diversified Cooperative Education Program and the Adult Education office, which offers ESL, high school completion and continuing education classes. High school students register for our programs through the school counselor at their home district.

Ages 12 to 21, students at James E. Allen Jr./Sr. High School receive intensive support alongside academic instruction. Western Suffolk BOCES combines life-skills development with vocational and community-based training, then adds related services to support each student’s program.

Western Suffolk BOCES offers a comprehensive range of educational and therapeutic programs tailored to meet the unique needs of students with special needs. Located on Long Island, this institution provides specialized services through its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, which are designed to equip students with essential skills for future employment. The special education programs at Western Suffolk BOCES include a variety of options such as the JEA Elementary, JEA Jr./Sr. High, and Manor Plains High, catering to different age groups and learning requirements. These programs focus on individualized instruction and support, ensuring that each child receives the attention they need to thrive academically and socially. In addition to traditional educational pathways, Western Suffolk BOCES emphasizes the importance of instructional support and professional development for educators. This commitment ensures that teachers are well-equipped to provide the highest quality of education to students with diverse learning needs. Parents can also explore various student support services, including instructional technology and outdoor education, which enhance the learning experience. The Model Schools initiative and exploratory enrichment programs further enrich the curriculum, providing students with opportunities to engage in hands-on learning and develop critical thinking skills. For families seeking adult education options, Western Suffolk BOCES offers programs for adults looking to learn English, obtain their teaching certificates, or pursue career training. This holistic approach to education underscores the institution's dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all individuals. With a focus on collaboration and community engagement, Western Suffolk BOCES is committed to empowering students with special needs, helping them achieve their full potential and prepare for successful futures.