In their placements, students work with teachers, social workers, counselors and other education professionals. They observe in classrooms, even teaching their own lessons and working with students in settings from kindergarten to high school. Students shadow professionals and see the wide variety of occupations available in the area of education. In our own classroom, we investigate the structures that support all this activity and try to make connections between the theory we learn and the real situations we observe. We look at the history and purpose of education, the way schools are funded and organized, the need for alternative and special education services, child development and classroom management, always with an emphasis on professionalism and preparation for college and a career.

All New Visions academies integrate 12th-grade English and social studies classes. The English class is a yearlong, writing-intensive program that supports the individual academy's subject matter. Broome Community College Fast Forward credit is available for the English class.

The social studies class includes participation in government, economics, and a course on public policy offered through Syracuse University. Students also take a core course in their area of concentration.