Madrid-Waddington Offers SUNY Canton College Courses
An innovative new two-year program created by Madrid-Waddington Central School allows St. Lawrence County students to earn more than 30 college credits before they graduate from high school.
Beginning in the fall 2025 semester, junior and senior-level students can enroll in the Drone and Computer Technologies program, which consists of courses about unmanned aeronautical vehicles, 3D printing, AI literacy, cybersecurity, and more. The program potentially places students an entire year ahead for their college education.
The program was initially designed as an in-house offering for Madrid-Waddington students. Superintendent Eric Burke said the school board is fully supportive of opening the opportunity to other local school students at no cost to maximize the program’s impact.
“The goal is to create a seamless transition from high school to college,” the superintendent said. “We will have capacity beyond the seats occupied by Madrid-Waddington students, and we believe this opportunity is too valuable to leave any openings unoccupied.”
Neighboring districts sending students to Madrid-Waddington will only be asked to cover direct costs for their students, such as supplies and incidental expenses.
Madrid-Waddington High School Principal Joe Binion explained that the program requires students to dedicate about a third of their school day, or three periods, to specialized coursework.
“The initiative is structured to be accessible while providing valuable science, technology, arts, and math classes,” Binion said. “Students also benefit from the bridge to SUNY Canton’s programs. Those who are interested in Cybersecurity, Data Science and Analytics, Mechanical Engineering, or Game Design can apply their high school coursework toward these degree pathways.”
The first-year curriculum will include laser printing, textile design, and drone soccer, in addition to a variety of college-credit courses through SUNY Canton, allowing students to earn between 16 and 18 college credits. In the second year, they will advance their studies with courses including GIS mapping, drone coding, and Cybersecurity courses, potentially earning an additional 15 to 19 college credits.
“SUNY Canton is proud to partner with Madrid-Waddington’s leadership to develop the Drone and Computer Technologies program,” said SUNY Canton President Zvi Szafran. “It demonstrates the high school’s unwavering commitment to expanding access to higher education at SUNY Canton and helps ensure future career success for St. Lawrence County students.”
The initiative builds on the college’s current dual-enrollment program, which offers college classes at no cost through area high schools. The SUNY Canton Center for Workforce, Community and Industry Partnerships orchestrates the arrangement.
Plans for continued expansion of the program include the possibility of having second-year students spend part of their day directly at SUNY Canton for additional courses.
Discover SUNY Canton, where innovation meets opportunity. The college’s career-focused educational programs emphasize hands-on and applied learning opportunities in digital design, engineering technology, health, information technology, management, public service, and veterinary technology. Faculty members bring real-world experience and exceptional academic expertise to the classroom. As a leader in online education, SUNY Canton offers unmatched flexibility with hundreds of courses and 25 comprehensive degree programs offered completely online. The SUNY Canton Kangaroos compete at the NCAA Division III level and are members of the SUNYAC. In addition to its 15 traditional teams, SUNY Canton offers coed varsity esports and cheerleading.