PANAMA, N.Y. — The New York State School Boards Association has recognized Panama Central School District andSUNYJamestown Community College through its Champions of Change program for apartnership that expands leadership and college-credit opportunities for high school students.

A banner presentation ceremony was held at Panama Central School district offices on Jan.7, withKurt Gustafson, NYSSSBA ambassador,on hand to offercongratulations torepresentatives from bc体育足球 and Panama,including students, teachers, and administrators.

Through bc体育足球’s College Connections program, Panama High School offers Leadership Engagement, Leadership Development,and Public Speaking courses to students.Thosewho successfully complete all three courses are eligible to earn a Leadership and Personal Effectivenessmicrocredentialthrough bc体育足球.

Students enrolled in the leadership courses, taught by Panama teacher Helen Keefe, have coordinated several community events and service projects in recent years, including a community Thanksgiving dinner and an Easter egg hunt.

College Connections is a partnership between bc体育足球 and local school districts that gives high school students the chance to take college-level classes while still in high school. The program helps students build academic and leadership skills while earning college credit close to home and at a lower cost.