Educational Partners
Eldred Central School
Scott Hallock, Board President
Traci Ferreira, Superintendent
Fallsburg Central School
Fiorella Muscia, Board President Ivan Katz, Superintendent
Liberty Central School
Pam Teed Fisk, Board President Patrick Sullivan, Superintendent
Monticello Central School
Timothy Crumley, Board President Matthew Evans, Superintendent
Rockland Central School
Ed Gorr, Board President Keith Lewis, Interim Superintendent
Sullivan West Central School
Rose Joyce-Turner, Board President
Kathleen Bressler, Superintendent
Tri-Valley Central School
Timothy Dymond, Board President Erin Long, Superintendent
Commissioner of Education
President of the University of the State of New York
89 Washington Avenue, Room 111
Albany, New York 12234
E-mail: commissioner@nysed.gov
Twitter:@NYSEDNews
Tel: (518) 474-5844
February 2026
Dear Members of the Cooperative Boards of New York State:
New York’s public education system is strongest when we work together to expand opportunity for every student. BOCES have long been essential partners in that work strengthening instructional programs, expanding career and technical education, providing shared services, and helping districts collaborate to meet student needs across regions.
This year, I want to highlight NY Inspires: A Plan to Transform Education in New York State, NYSED’s phased roadmap to implement the Board of Regents’ graduation measures recommendations. Developed through years of statewide engagement with educators, families, students, higher education, business partners, and BOCES, NY Inspires is designed to ensure that every student graduates prepared for careers, college, and civic life. The plan centers on four major shifts: adopting the New York State Portrait of a Graduate; redefining credits to focus on demonstrated proficiency; sunsetting diploma assessment requirements; and moving to one diploma. The phased approach is intended to support thoughtful planning, professional learning, and continuous feedback as districts transition to an updated system of pathways and measures actions BOCES across our state are already playing a pivotal role in supporting
NY Inspires will require strong regional capacity to expand access to high-quality opportunities, particularly cross-district course access, early college and dual enrollment, CTE and work-based learning networks, shared instructional and specialized staffing models, professional learning, and coordinated student supports. BOCES are uniquely positioned to help districts implement these changes in ways that are equitable, scalable, and locally responsive.
I also want to recognize the leadership of BOCES District Superintendents in the Regionalization initiative. All 37 BOCES participated, with over 83% of districts engaged with higher education, workforce, government, and community partners. The regional plans, aligned with the key legislative and budget priorities of the Department, reflect both near-term actions and forward-looking recommendations for State consideration, organized around four consistent themes:
• Increasing access to early learning, academic offerings, and graduation pathways
• Promoting student engagement, safety, and healthy development
• Enhancing educator quality and recruitment
• Exploring innovative models for cross-district collaboration
These themes and recommendations will help inform NYSED and the Board of Regents as we shape future legislative and budget priorities in partnership with the Executive and Legislature.
Thank you for your leadership and continued partnership on behalf of New York’s students.
Sincerely,
Betty A. Rosa Commissioner
Mission Statement
Sullivan BOCES is an innovative, county-wide educational service agency, providing leadership, cooperative services, and collaborative opportunities for students, school districts, and community organizations. We promote student success, equity and inclusion for all, while meeting the diverse needs of our students and rural communities.
What is a BOCES?
BOCES stands for Board of Cooperative Educational Services. A BOCES is able to provide services that school districts may be too small to offer on their own or that are more economical to offer collaboratively, sharing costs with other districts. The function of a BOCES is to provide shared services to the component school districts in a manner that is effective, efficient, and fosters equity for all students.
How are BOCES services paid for?
School districts pay only for the specific BOCES services they use. These expenses are incorporated into each district’s annual budget.
How does a BOCES work?
A BOCES helps school districts save money by pooling their resources and sharing costs. BOCES services are created when two or more school districts have similar needs that can be met by sharing staff members, office spaces, equipment, time, and other resources. This allows schools to operate more efficiently and cost-effectively which translates to real savings for taxpayers.
BOCES also expands opportunities for students. Alone, school districts may not be able to afford the educational programs they desire without increasing the tax burden on their residents. Together, through the BOCES, districts can provide a rich variety of experiences for students of all interests and ability levels.
Who is responsible for running a BOCES?
The BOCES Board of Education members are elected to serve three-year terms. The Chief Executive Officer of a BOCES also serves as District Superintendent of Schools and works closely with local school districts as an agent of the New York State Commissioner of Education.
Sullivan BOCES is committed to providing quality cost-effective services to its eight component districts.
March 20, 2026
Where Futures Begin & Dreams are Achieved!
Dear Fellow School Board Members,
On behalf of the Sullivan BOCES Board of Education, I am pleased to present the 2026-2027 Proposed Budget, which reflects Sullivan BOCES’ continued commitment to providing high-quality, cost-effective programs that expand opportunities for all of your students while supporting districts through professional development and shared services.
It is also my pleasure to once again invite you to attend the Sullivan BOCES Annual Meeting and Dinner on April 15, 2026, at the Rubin Pollack Education Center. This event provides an opportunity to hear about the proposed budget, meet candidates for the BOCES Board of Education, and learn more about the programs and services offered through Sullivan BOCES. It is also a wonderful opportunity to see firsthand the work of our students and staff.
The event will begin at 5:30 PM with a reception where you can interact with Career & Tech students and BOCES staff. At 6:00 PM, we will begin our annual business meeting followed by another wonderful dinner created and served by our wonderful culinary students. This is an event you won’t want to miss.
We appreciate your continued partnership and support as we work together to provide meaningful educational opportunities and prepare students for success in college, careers, and their communities.
We look forward to seeing you on April 15th for the BOCES Annual Meeting.
Sincerely,
Linda Berkowicz Sullivan BOCES Board President
Linda Berkowicz
Board of Education
Keith Stryker
Jean Hewlett President, Fallsburg Vice President, Tri-Valley Board Clerk, Sullivan BOCES
Erin Abplanalp, Liberty
Tammi Chaboty, At-Large: Tri-Valley
Linda Fisk, Rockland
Susan Horton, Monticello
Amador Laput, Eldred
Jackie Rutledge, Sullivan West
Allyson Smith, At-Large: Rockland
Administrative Team
Michael Rullo
Interim District Superintendent & CEO
Senior Management Team
Susan A. Schmidt
Deputy Superintendent & COO
Megan Becker Director of Special Education
Jennifer DeFrank Executive Director of Human Resources
Vicky Ferguson Executive Director of Finance & Business Services
Susan Zieres Teeple Director of Instructional Support Services & Data Protection Officer
Instructional Administrators
Executive Principals
Linda Blanton
Secondary Programs
Jeffrey Molusky Career & Technical Education
Adam Riehl Student Behavioral Services
Principals
Nikki Grant
Secondary Programs
Janice Dusseldorp-Phillips
Interim, Career & Technical Education
Barbara Utter
Elementary Programs
Assistant Principals
Melissa Ebeling
Elementary Programs
Management Team
Robert Cosh
Director of Operations & Network Administration
Tera DiTommaso
Assistant School Business Manager & CBO Coordinator
Sara Haynes Director of School Library Systems
Donna Hemmer Director of Communications
Kurt Mall Director of Facilities
Danielle Mann
School Business Administrator
Jennifer Mitchell
Assistant School Business Manager & Treasurer
Merideth Paff
Coordinator of Instructional Support Serivices
Dawn Parsons Director of Food Services
Kathleen Wilcox
Data Administrator
A Message from the Interim District Superintendent
Dear Colleagues and Board Members:
As we prepare for the 2026-2027 school year, Sullivan BOCES remains committed to strengthening educational opportunities for students while supporting the evolving needs of our component districts. Through strategic investments in programs, partnerships, and facilities, we continue to develop initiatives that support both student success and workforce development across our region.
One initiative that continues to make a meaningful impact is the Teacher Residency Program, which was developed to address the growing need for qualified educators in our schools. Currently, 13 individuals are participating in the program and are on their path to becoming certified teachers. These future educators are gaining valuable classroom experience while completing their certification requirements and supporting instruction in four of our component school districts and at Sullivan BOCES. By investing in this program, we are helping build a sustainable pipeline of educators prepared to serve students in our region for years to come.
We are also excited to highlight the upcoming renovation of the Career & Technical Education Cosmetology lab, which will create an updated, industry-aligned learning environment for our students. The renovated space features modern equipment and a professional salon-style layout that reflects current industry standards and creates a welcoming environment as students open their Class Act Salon to the community.
These initiatives represent Sullivan BOCES’ continued commitment to innovation, collaboration, and preparing students and professionals for success. By investing in programs that strengthen our workforce and enhance learning environments, we are helping to ensure that students and districts throughout our region have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
We appreciate your continued partnership and support as we work together to expand opportunities and strengthen educational services for the students and communities we serve.
Sincerely,
Michael Rullo
Inerim District Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer
Michael Rullo
2025 Annual Meeting Minutes
Annual Board Meeting (Thursday, April 10, 2025)
Generated by Jean Hewlett on Thursday, May 14, 2025
Members present: Linda Berkowicz, Susan Horton, Keith Stryker, Jackie Rutledge, Tammy Chaboty, Linda Fisk
Members absent: Carol Bliefernich, Carol Park
The meeting was called to order at 6:15 PM
1. Meeting Opening: Informational: 1.01 Pledge and Welcome
Dr. Dufour welcomed all those present and thanked them for attending the meeting. Jesse Gonzalez, a BOCES Public Safety student, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
2. Opening Remarks/Call to Order: Informational, Procedural: 2.01 Call to Order
Mrs. Berkowicz called the meeting to order at 6:15 pm. She then thanked all those present for attending the annual meeting and explained the agenda for the evening.
3. Recognition of the Livingston Manor and Roscoe Boards
Dr. Dufour and Mrs. Berkowicz took a moment from the meeting and recognized the members of both the Roscoe and Livingston Manor Board, thanking them for their years of service to the students and staff at both school districts and presenting them with a certificate of appreciation. The members of the newly merged Rockland Central School District were also introduced.
4. Approval of Minutes: Action, Minutes: 4.01 Approval of the April 11, 2024 Annual Board Meeting Minutes BE IT RESOLVED, that the Sulivan BOCES Board of Education approves the minutes of the Annual Board of Education Meeting held on April 11, 2024. Motion by Keith Stryker, seconded by Jackie Rutledge. Final Resolution: Motion Carried Yes: Linda Berkowicz, Susan Horton, Keith Stryker, Jackie Rutledge, Tammy Chaboty, Linda Fisk
5. Introduction of Candidates for Election to the Board
Informational: 5.01 Erin Abplanalp - Liberty CSD Candidate
In Mrs. Abplanalp's absence, Mrs. Hewlett, Board Clerk, read a brief statement from Mrs. Abplanalp.
Informational: 5.02 Amador Laput - Eldred CSD Candidate
Mr. Laput introduced himself, noted he is a father of five and a long-time Eldred school board member, and shared a few reasons why he is interested in being a member of the Sullivan BOCES Board of Education.
Informational: 5.03 Jackie Rutledge - Sullivan West CSD Candidate
Mrs. Rutledge reintroduced herself and noted that she is also a member of the Sullivan West school board and enjoys being a member of both school boards. She thanked everyone for attending tonight's meeting.
Informational: 5.04 Allyson Smith - Rockland CSD Candidate
Mrs. Smith introduced herself and noted that this will be her first time as a school board member and that she is excited for the opportunity to serve.
Informational: 5.05 Keith Stryker - Tri-Valley CSD Candidate
Mr. Stryker also reintroduced himself as a current Sullivan BOCES Board Member and the Board President for the Tri-Valley Central School District board of education. He thanked everyone for coming to tonight's meeting.
6. Administrative and Services Budget: Informational: 6.01 Presentation of the 2025-2026 Administrative and Services Budget
Susan A. Schmidt, Deputy Superintendent, and Victoria Ferguson, Executive Director of Finance and Business Services, presented the 25-26 Administrative and Services Budget to all those present. A copy of this presentation can be obtained from the BOCES Business Office.
7. Announcements: Informational: 7.01 Raffles and Grand Prize
Victoria Ferguson, Executive Director of Finance and Business Services, and Kathleen Wilcox, Assistant Principal of CTE, announced the winners of the gifts made and offered by the BOCES Students.
8. Adjournment: Action: 8.01 Adjournment
BE IT RESOLVED, that the Annual Sullivan BOCES Board of Education meeting be adjourned till next year.
Motion by Keith Stryker, second by Jackie Rutledge. Final Resolution: Motion Carried
Yes: Linda Berkowicz, Susan Horton, Keith Stryker, Jackie Rutledge, Tammy Chaboty, Linda Fisk
Respectfully submitted, Jean Hewlett, Clerk of the Board
Where Future Begin & Dreams Are Achieved!
Glossary of Terms
BOCES Board of Cooperative Educational Services
Coser Cooperative services applications for every BOCES service, whether aidable or not, must be filed and approved by the State Education Department before the shared service is provided.
F.T.E. Full Time Equivalent
Itinerant BOCES staff members, both certified and specialty support personnel, are shared Services between school districts. This service can be received at the local school, a BOCES site, or a neutral location. Services can be provided during certain hours of the day, certain days of the week, or certain periods during a school year. Services must not exceed 60% of a full-time service.
R.W.A.D.A. Resident Weighted Average Daily Attendance
Services Any activity or program provided as described in an approved application which is supported by funds in the service section of a BOCES budget. There may be a number of identifiable elective functions with any given service.
Shared A service in which two or more school districts participate. Sharing is a requirement Service in order for the cost of a service to be eligible for BOCES aid.
Where Futures Begin & Dreams Are Achieved!
2026-2027 Administrative, Rental & Capital Revenues
Administrative Budget 2026-2027 Major Contractual Items by Budget Code
The Administrative Services and Facilities budgets are shared by the seven component districts based on RWADA (approved by the BOCES Board August 1994). This budget covers the expenses of the Board of Education, the Executive Officer of the BOCES, central administration and support services personnel/public information, business office operations, a portion of operation/maintenance services, capital expenses, lease facility costs, and classroom rentals.
BOARD OF EDUCATION
DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE
GENERAL COSTS OF ADMINISTRATION
Administrative Services & Facilities
REVENUES:
$794,292
Please Note:
Please Note: The
Please Note:
Coser 206.300 - ITAP Program
Please Note: The
Coser 208 - Summer Program - Handicapped
Coser 702 - Speech Services
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Coser 703 - Counseling Services
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Coser 705 - Occupational Therapy Services
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Please
Coser 706 - Teacher of Visually Impaired
Less: Transfer from Other Programs
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Coser 710 - Nursing Services
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Please
Coser 304 - Teacher of the Blind
$143,175
Coser 305 - Teacher of the Deaf
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Please Note:
Coser 320 - Physical Therapy
$168,840
Coser 325 - School Food Management
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Coser 330 - School Business Manager
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Coser 335 - Shared HR & Software Support
Please Note: The
Please Note:
Coser 403 - Arts In Education
Instructional Services
Coser 405 - Early College Education
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Instructional Services
$109,558
Coser 406 - Alternative GED
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Instructional
Coser 407 - Alternative Middle School Program
Please Note: The
Instructional
Coser 408 - Alternative High School Program
Please
$2,099,466
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Instructional Services
Coser 410 - SPARC - Supplemental Program for at Risk Children
Please Note: The
Coser 410.010 - IDT - Intensive Day Treatment
Please Note: The projected figures are based on Estimated
Instructional Services
Coser 457 - Distance Learning
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Instructional Services
Coser 529 - School Library Support
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Instructional Support Services
Please Note:
Coser 550 - Learning Tech
$356,009
Instructional
Coser 551 - School Improvement
Coser 551.050 - Positive Behavior Intervention & Support
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Instructional
REVENUES:
Coser 551.070 - Tech Integration Specialist
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Instructional Support Services
Coser 551.080 - Education Data Management
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Instructional Support Services
Coser 553 - Library Automation
Please Note: The
Instructional Support Services
Please
Coser 557 - Model Schools
Instructional Support Services
$151,716
Coser 602 - Health & Safety Coordination
Please Note:
$203,732
Coser 625 - Cooperative Recruitment
Please Note: The projected figures are based on the Initial Services Request.
Please Note:
Coser 630 - Telecommunications
Coser 635 - Central Business Office
Please Note:
$1,430,300
Management
2026-2027 Summary of Projected Programs & Services
3,631,7488.30%
EstimatedRevenuefor2026-2027
Facilities: Projected Rentals
FACILITIES RENTAL
Role of the BOCES District Superintendent
The District Superintendent of Schools serves two roles:
District Superintendent of the State Education Department and Chief Executive Officer of the Board of Cooperative Educational Services
Examples of the services performed in carrying out this responsibility for the state and local community are:
Assists with school districts experiencing serious problems as a representative of the Commissioner of Education.
Conducts school registration reviews for schools within the Supervisory District, as well as schools in New York City.
Provides support for the Regents and State Education Department School Reform initiatives through meetings, monitoring, and coordination of staff from the State Education Department.
Conducts searches for Superintendents of Schools, as well as other administrative staff at the request of the component districts.
Assists districts with reorganization, annexation or the expansion of shared services to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the instructional program.
Resolves boundary disputes between neighboring districts.
General administration of the Board of Cooperative Educational Services.
Fills vacancies on the Boards of Education where boards do not take action to fill the vacancies.
Administers oaths and takes affidavits.
Approves building plans for new construction.
Attends meetings regularly with the Commissioner of Education and staff.
Provides annual reports to the Commissioner of Education of activities in the supervisory district.
District Superintendent Summary
Compensation/Benefit Provisions for District Superintendent of Schools
Sole Supervisory District of Sullivan County and Chief Executive Officer
Sullivan County Board of Cooperative Educational Services
The District Superintendent’s total initial salary for the period July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 shall be $164,751. The State Education Department also provides a salary of $43,499 for responsibilities as District Superintendent.
Provisions in the budget will support either:
a) Reimbursement for actual district related mileage, or
b) The use of a district vehicle, with the specific application to be determined by the employment agreement with the District Superintendent.
The total budget for contractual and other expenses is broken into the following amounts:
$19,250 for conference, meeting, workshop and seminar expenses including functions required by the State Education Department
$3,450 for professional memberships and subscriptions
$2,220 for other contractual services
$1,000 for printing related expenses
Sick leave and vacation leave provisions are consistent with similar benefits available to the management confidential staff of the State Education Department.
