The Edge is a publication of Sullivan BOCES Communications Division
May 21 CTE Honor Society Induction
May 25 Memorial Day (BOCES Closed)
June 3 Academic Achievement Celebration
June 4 CTE Senior Awards Ceremony
June 23 CTE Recognition Ceremony
June 25 Alternative & Special Education Graduation
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Linda Berkowicz, President - Fallsburg
Keith Stryker, Vice President - Tri-Valley
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
Where Futures Begin & Dreams Are Achieved!
ABOUT SULLIVAN BOCES
Sullivan BOCES delivers a wide-range of instructional and management services to its eight component school districts and several other districts outside the county Our three hundred staff members collaborate with our partners to create solutions to educational challenges, increase operational efficiencies, and reduce costs We improve student success by providing quality educational experiences, helping students achieve their goals, learn skills, increase knowledge and develop a work ethic for the 21st century
N E W T E N U R E S
Achieving tenure marks an important chapter in an educator’s journey one that reflects consistent dedication, resilience, and a deep commitment to student success
It is the result of years of hard work, thoughtful practice, and a willingness to grow while contributing to a positive learning environment We extend our sincere congratulations to those who have recently earned tenure and thank them for the energy, care, and professionalism they bring to their roles each day.
Nicole Casamassima, Speech Pathologist
Carla Picciano, Teaching Assistant
Kathleen Wilcox, CTE Principal
Barbara Utter, Elementary Principal
Nikki Grant, Secondary Principal
Megan Becker, Director of Special Education
Susan Zieres Teeple, Director of Instructional Support Services
BOCES BIDS FAREWELL TO TWO INDIVIDUALS WHO MADE A LASTING IMPACT
We proudly recognize Dr Robert M Dufour and Ann Marie Franklin, Social Worker, two remarkable individuals whose many years of service have left a lasting mark on education in Sullivan County. Through their dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to students, they have helped shape opportunities, inspire growth, and strengthen our school communities Their work has made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless young people, and we are grateful for the legacy they leave behind
Over the years, Ann Marie Franklin has been a role model for social workers and counseling staff
Her years of service on the crisis team and the countywide Critical Incident Stress Management Team reflects her strong commitment to supporting both students and staff.
Throughout his tenure, Dr Dufour has demonstrated visionary leadership and an enduring commitment to expanding opportunities for students and school districts alike. His efforts have strengthened collaborative partnerships, enhanced educational programming, and supported innovative services that prepare students for success in college, careers, and life
Dr Dufour’s dedication to fostering growth, innovation, and shared services has had a profound and lasting impact on the region’s educational landscape.
Robert M Dufour Ed D
Ann Marie Franklin
BUILDING ON 75 YEARS: SULLIVAN BOCES REFLECTS AND LOOKS TO THE FUTURE
Sullivan BOCES proudly celebrated its 75th Anniversary marking seven and a half decades of service, innovation, and commitment to the students, educators, and communities of Sullivan County. The milestone event was held at SUNY Sullivan, where state and county officials, school district representatives, and community partners gathered to honor the occasion.
The celebration began with a reception prepared through a collaborative effort between the culinary programs of both institutions. Students worked together to craft and serve a menu that showcased their talents and highlighted the value of hands-on, career-focused education an approach central to BOCES’ mission.
During the program, remarks were shared by Board President Linda Berkowicz; Camille O’Brien, representing Senator Oberacker’s office; Dr David Potash, president of SUNY Sullivan; and Megan Evans, philanthropy manager at Garnet Health Medical Center–Catskills
Nadia Rajsz, Legislative Chair for Sullivan County, emphasized the lasting impact of BOCES on the region “Sullivan BOCES has impacted thousands of lives by teaching real-world skills and adapting to meet the needs of our children and community,” Rajsz said “The success of BOCES has been our county’s success, and we hope it will continue for many years to come ”
In keeping with its commitment to service, proceeds from the commemorative journal beyond event costs were donated to the Sullivan BOCES Backpack Program, which supports students in need Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and SUNY Sullivan, District Superintendent Dr Robert M Dufour presented a $3,000 check to Megan Becker, Director of Special Education The donation helped feed more than 50 families over the holiday season
Since its founding in 1950, Sullivan BOCES has expanded educational opportunities through shared services, innovative programming, and regional collaboration From Career & Technical Education and Special Education to Adult Education, Itinerant Services, and Professional Development, BOCES continues to play a vital role in preparing students for success in college, careers, and life
Over the decades, BOCES has evolved to meet the changing needs of the region from early vocational programs to modern workforce initiatives and streamlined services for school districts while remaining committed to enhancing student performance through collaboration and efficiency
“Our 75th Anniversary is not just about looking back, it’s about recognizing how far we ’ ve come together,” said Dr Dufour “For 75 years, we ’ ve worked side-byside with our local school districts to create opportunities for students, strengthen our workforce, and support our communities ”
For generations, BOCES has been a place where students discover their passions, educators find support, and communities benefit from a shared purpose The 75th Anniversary celebrates not only a historic milestone but also the ongoing commitment to ensuring every learner has the opportunity to thrive
Joshua Potosek Catherine Scott Nadia Rajsz Robert Dufour, and Brian McPhillips
SULLIVAN BOCES UNDERGOES ORGANIZATIONAL
STUDY TO
GUIDE FUTURE PLANNING
Sullivan BOCES has begun its formal organizational study to evaluate its structure, service capacity, administrative functions, and physical facilities. This comprehensive review, required by the New York State Commissioner of Education, is designed to highlight institutional strengths and identify strategic opportunities to guide the organization’s future planning.
The study follows the retirement of District Superintendent Dr. Robert M. Dufour. In accordance with New York State Department of Education (NYSED) protocol, the superintendent vacancy triggered an initial stakeholder survey. Based on survey results, NYSED determined that a more in-depth analysis is needed before a permanent search for a new District Superintendent can begin.
To lead the study, Sullivan BOCES issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for an independent consultant. At the February 10 Board meeting, White & Partners LLC was selected to conduct the organizational review. Various stakeholder groups have already completed surveys to share their input. The final report will be submitted to NYSED by June 30, 2026.
While mandated, organizational studies are not new to Sullivan BOCES; similar reviews have been conducted during previous leadership transitions to ensure the organization continues to serve the region effectively.
During this period, Mr. Michael Rullo, District Superintendent of DCMO BOCES, has been appointed by the Commissioner as Interim District Superintendent Mr Rullo brings extensive experience in rural leadership, providing stability as the study progresses Stakeholders’ feedback plays a central role in the process
This organizational study reflects Sullivan BOCES’ commitment to continuous improvement and strategic planning to meet the evolving educational needs of its communities
SULLIVAN BOCES ENHANCES COSER OFFERINGS TO
BROADEN STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES AND INCREASE DISTRICT EFFICIENCIES
Sullivan BOCES continues to strengthen its services by enhancing cosers that provide school districts with expanded educational opportunities while delivering measurable cost savings. These strategic enhancements reflect BOCES’ commitment to meeting the districts’ evolving needs
This year, several enhancements were made to enrich student learning experiences, improve access to specialized programming, and reduce the financial burden on individual districts by leveraging shared expertise and resources
Arts In Education
“This is my favorite event of the year. The Mock Book Awards energizes us and is a great resource to help put different books in our students’ hands. It is just a wonderful experience.”
Lori Bizjak, Eldred School Librarian
The Arts in Education Coser brings dynamic cultural and creative opportunities directly to students by coordinating high-quality arts experiences,
including performances, workshops, and artist engagements that might otherwise be costprohibitive This year, the Coser was expanded to allow districts to purchase musical instruments for student use. This enhancement is a significant benefit to districts
Early College Access
The Early College Access Coser expands educational opportunities for students by offering component school districts the ability to enroll students in early college courses These courses, taught by New York State-certified teachers approved as adjuncts by partner institutions of higher education (IHE), provide students with a valuable opportunity to earn high school and college credit simultaneously. By participating in the Early College Access
program, students can enhance their academic achievements while reducing future college tuition costs. Districts are also eligible to receive BOCES Aid on tuition and instructional costs, providing a significant financial benefit to participating districts.
Technology Services
Districts that contract for technology services can also take advantage of an additional, critically important benefit BOCES technicians are now playing a key role in safeguarding district infrastructure by offering penetration testing and comprehensive network assessments to identify vulnerabilities and strengthen cybersecurity defenses These proactive measures help districts protect sensitive data, maintain secure instructional environments, and reduce the risk of disruption from cyberattacks
“By enhancing our Cosers, we ’ re able to provide districts with expanded educational opportunities while helping them maximize resources, ” said Susan Zieres, Director of Instructional Support Services at Sullivan BOCES “From bringing arts and music directly to students, to offering early college access courses, to strengthening technology and cybersecurity support, these initiatives ensure students receive high-quality, innovative learning experiences while districts benefit from shared expertise and cost savings ”
Special Education
Staffing is an ongoing challenge for BOCES and school districts across the state Finding qualified individuals has made it difficult for BOCES to expand the number of special education classrooms and ENL services to meet the ever-changing needs of our districts BOCES aims to ensure districts have access to the personnel, expertise, and instructional supports necessary to serve students effectively while maintaining financial efficiencies through shared services
To address the growing need for specialized learning environments, BOCES plans to open another 8:1:3 Special Education class in the 2026-27 school year
The 8:1:3 program is for students who exhibit a communication need, have a diagnosis of autism, or require an increased level of support Students in this
class structure work individually or in small groups, and staff are trained in instructional and behavioral strategies that increase students’ ability to attend to and participate in instruction. Students also learn how to communicate to become stronger learners academically, socially, and emotionally
“Staffing continues to be one of our greatest challenges, but it also reinforces the importance of the work we do Our priority is to ensure that every student has access to the specialized supports they need to be successful By expanding programs like our 8:1:3 classrooms, we are responding to the growing and evolving needs of our students while continuing to support our districts through high-quality, shared services,” said Megan Becker, Director of Special Education at BOCES
CELEBRATING STUDENT CREATIVITY AT THE 2026 SCHOLASTIC ART AWARDS
Sullivan BOCES recently held its Regional 2026 Scholastic Art Awards Program at SUNY New Paltz. The event brought together talented young artists from Dutchess, Orange, Sullivan, and Ulster counties to celebrate their creativity and artistic achievement.
This event is one of many programs offered through the Arts in Education Coser at Sullivan BOCES and is organized in collaboration with the Hudson Valley Scholastic Art Affiliates.
This year, the competition welcomed 949 middle and high school artists and adjudicated an impressive 3,227 works. Among the winners, 228 students received Gold Keys, 317 earned Silver Keys, 458 were recognized with Honorable Mentions, and five were awarded the prestigious American Vision Award for exemplary artistic expression.
“Events like this inspire students to continue exploring their creativity and personal expression while reinforcing how vital the arts are to a wellrounded education,” said Merideth Paff, instructional support services coordinator at Sullivan BOCES.
“Art has brought much joy to my life. It allows me to show who I am and what I represent,” said Sebastian Yupanqui, of Liberty. “Through art, I’ve learned confidence, patience, and how to see the world from a different perspective. Being able to express myself through photography is a surreal feeling, and sharing my perspective pushes me to grow as both an artist and an individual.”
According to Allison Vasko, a Gold and Silver Key winner also from Liberty Central School, “Being in the competition represents both my passion for my own work and my excitement to see the creativity of others Competing alongside students my age allows me to gain inspiration and new perspectives that continue to shape me as an artist Bringing home seven Gold Keys and five Silver Keys was a huge accomplishment Because art is so subjective, knowing that people who do not even know me value my work motivates me to keep pushing myself and growing.”
Sullivan County students had an outstanding presence in the competition, earning 14 Gold Keys and 26 Silver Keys
Liberty Central School
Carlos Garzon-Cruz 1 Gold Key, 2 Silver Keys
Misael Juarez Perez 1 Gold Key, 1 Silver Key
Evelyn Molina 1 Silver Key
Kourtney Perry 1 Gold Key, 1 Silver Key
Lucio Ponce Vazquez 1 Gold Key, 4 Silver Keys
Cassandra Porter 1 Gold Key
Emma Stonick-Florez 1 Silver Key
Allison Vasko 7 Gold Keys, 5 Silver Keys
Giuliana Wagner 3 Silver Keys
Sebastian Yupanqui 2 Gold Keys, 5 Silver Keys
Monticello Central School
Daniela Loja 2 Silver Keys
Livingston Manor Central School
Tyler Gorr 1 Silver Key
Image by Allison Vasko, Liberty CSD "Sonder" Gold Key
“Art has always been an important part of my life, and creating whether through photography, painting, or making gifts for others is something I truly love,” Vasko added “Having art as part of my coursework gives me a class to look forward to each day, where I can express my thoughts and gain insight from my peers ”
Hudson Valley–based artist Liz Nielsen, known for her innovative photographic work, served as the ceremony ’ s keynote speaker Her work, exhibited nationally and internationally, is recognized for its distinctive “light paintings,” created without a camera in an analog color darkroom using traditional photographic processes
Nielsen shared insights into her artistic journey, recalling how, as a child, she viewed the world through bags filled with water and food coloring to experience shifting colors and perspectives Today, her work explores the idea of portals and themes that evoke emotion and personal connection
She encouraged students to “surround yourself with people who believe in you, ” remain committed to their craft, and “keep making your work don’t stop ” She also advised young artists to keep a reminder of their ideas close at hand so they can continue creating and developing their vision
“On behalf of the Hudson Valley Regional Scholastic Affiliate, we are proud of the artistic accomplishments of our students and wish our Gold Key winners luck as their work moves through national adjudication”
Merideth Paff
Kourtney Perry, Liberty CSD "Mirror, Mirror on the Wall" Gold Key
COLLABORATING FOR IMPACT: HOW SULLIVAN BOCES EXPANDS PROGRAMS AND SUPPORTS DISTRICTS
Sullivan BOCES continues to expand its impact by strengthening partnerships with community organizations to deliver programs and services that benefit students while also supporting the operational and instructional needs of its component school districts Through these collaborations, BOCES is able to extend resources, share expertise, and respond to emerging educational priorities across the region
“Partnerships with community organizations allow us to extend resources and expertise in ways that directly benefit students and support our districts,” said Susan A Schmidt, Deputy Superintendent & COO at Sullivan BOCES
One example is the implementation of Sullivan 180’s Catch My Breath Program, a prevention initiative designed to educate students about the risks of vaping and promote healthier decision-making Sullivan BOCES has secured funds that will provide a total of $50,000 annually to support the program countywide
By working with community partners to bring this program into schools, BOCES helps districts address a critical public health concern with consistent messaging, evidencebased resources, and age-appropriate instruction that supports student well-being.
BOCES is collaborating with SUNY Sullivan to provide joint professional development connected to Early College Access. These training opportunities help teachers align instruction with college-level expectations, strengthen partnerships with higher education, and ensure that students enrolled in early college courses receive rigorous, high-quality learning experiences Shared professional development also reduces duplication of effort while building a stronger network of educators prepared to support college readiness
BOCES is also working with SUNY Sullivan through the Reconnect Program, a new initiative designed for New York residents ages 25–55 who do not yet have a college degree. One of the available degree pathways is an A A in Childhood Education, which provides teacher aides with an opportunity to become Certified Teaching Assistants This program helps districts strengthen their staffing pipeline by supporting teacher aides as they continue their education and advance within their districts
In addition, BOCES offers support through its Regional Certification Officer, who assists educators with questions related to the certification process.
BOCES is also working with Mount Saint Mary College through the Teacher Residency Program, offering courses for adults to advance their education and earn degrees that help fill highneed teaching positions.
Through initiatives like these, BOCES demonstrates how collaboration with community partners can expand opportunities for students, provide valuable shared services for districts, and create a coordinated regional approach to addressing staffing challenges
“From health initiatives like the Catch My Breath Program to collaborative professional development and teacher certification support, these efforts help students thrive, strengthen educators, and create a more coordinated, effective approach to meeting educational needs across the County,” added Zieres
BUSINESS CONTINUITY: PLANNING FOR THE UNEXPECTED
Sullivan BOCES has made Business Continuity Planning a priority to ensure schools can continue to rely on the BOCES to operate effectively during unexpected events, including data breaches, severe weather, infrastructure issues, public health concerns, and other disruptions Sullivan BOCES worked with Antoinette King of Credo Cyber Consulting LLC to develop a plan to minimize downtime and continue supporting schools across the region
“Business continuity planning is vital to our mission By building a comprehensive and adaptable plan, we are able to minimize disruptions to critical services,” said Susan A Schmidt, Deputy Superintendent & COO of Sullivan BOCES “ This ensures school districts remain confident that student instruction and support will continue regardless of the challenge By staying prepared, we provide districts with the certainty that student services always remain our top priority ”
BOCES began its efforts to create a clear framework that can be adapted as needed while maintaining consistency in planning, communication, and response The organization identified essential services that must remain operational, outlined strategies to maintain instruction and student support, and established protocols to address a range of potential scenarios
To build the plan, BOCES conducted a thorough department-level impact analysis, established a recovery team structure, and completed a business impact analysis These steps allowed the organization to identify critical services and systems, define maximum allowable downtime, establish clear recovery roles, and align facilities, IT, academic, and operational functions The result is a living, maintainable plan that can guide BOCES during a variety of situations
Through these efforts, BOCES is confident that the plan reflects best practices in risk management, technology readiness, and operational resilience The planning process also addresses continuity of instruction, safeguarding student data, maintaining transportation and food services when possible, and keeping communication with families, staff, and component districts clear and timely during disruptions This, in turn, gives districts peace of mind that BOCES can continue to serve their students with minimal downtime
"Our priority is to minimize learning disruptions while maintaining data security,” said Susan Zieres, Director of Instructional Support Services at Sullivan BOCES “We recognize that unforeseen emergencies may occur; in these moments, our plan is designed to be adaptive, ensuring we have the ability to pivot quickly "
Sullivan BOCES also offers a service to districts interested in receiving additional help in establishing their plans and is willing to start conversations with surrounding organizations about utilizing space in the event that districts need to temporarily relocate students until their facilities are back up and running By taking these steps, BOCES reinforces its mission of providing services and support that help schools operate efficiently and effectively The Business Continuity Planning effort not only strengthens preparedness but also ensures that, even in challenging circumstances, schools can remain focused on what matters most supporting students and sustaining learning
STATE BOOSTS BOCES AID TO SUPPORT INSTRUCTION AND STUDENT SUCCESS
School districts and students across the region will benefit from a recent increase in the BOCES aid salary cap, which has increased to $40,000. This change, announced by the New York State Education Department, reflects New York State’s continued support for Career and Technical Education (CTE) and other shared programs that help students prepare for college and careers.
The revised aid level, which took effect for the 2025–26 school year, means that eligible costs starting on July 1, 2025, will be calculated using the new $40,000 salary cap, and will be included in future state aid reimbursements.
The updated aid structure allows districts that partner with Sullivan BOCES to receive greater reimbursement for salary costs. By raising the limit, the state is helping districts manage rising expenses while continuing to offer strong programs and valuable hands-on learning experiences for students.
This change also updates a formula that had remained the same for many years. The increase is more in line with today’s costs and the need for skilled teachers in specialized subject areas.
With more support available, districts can recruit and retain qualified instructors and continue offering programs that connect classroom learning to real-world careers.
“Increasing BOCES Aid for salaries helps our districts and allows us to continue to recruit and retain talented teachers while providing students with high-quality, hands-on learning experiences,” said Susan A. Schmidt, Deputy Superintendent & COO of Sullivan BOCES. “With engaging programs and skilled teachers, we ’ re helping students gain the skills and experiences they need to succeed in college, careers, and life.”
For districts, the enhanced aid provides more stability when planning budgets and sharing services. For students, it helps ensure continued access to modern equipment, innovative instruction, and opportunities to build practical skills that prepare them for the future.
Overall, the increase represents an investment in both education and workforce development. It strengthens the partnership between local school districts and the BOCES while expanding opportunities for students to succeed in a changing economy.
RubinPollack EducationCenter
INVESTING IN FACILITIES TO SUPPORT STUDENT SUCCESS
Sullivan BOCES is working closely with its architects and facilities planners to update its comprehensive five-year capital improvement plan This long-range approach ensures that all areas of the campus are reviewed, upgraded, and maintained on a strategic cycle, allowing BOCES to proactively manage infrastructure, prioritize safety and program needs, and make thoughtful investments that extend the life and functionality of its facilities Sullivan BOCES also makes annual targeted improvements to maintain well-kept, industry-relevant environments that support modern educational programming These updates address immediate needs while supporting the long-term future of career & technical education and instructional services across the County
As part of this ongoing effort, Phase 2 of the Rubin Pollack Education Center Roof Project will start in June 2026, focusing on the A and B Wings This work is an important continuation of long-term infrastructure improvements that protect the building from weather-related wear while preserving the integrity of classrooms and instructional areas By proactively addressing roofing needs, BOCES helps prevent future maintenance issues and ensures uninterrupted learning
Program-specific enhancements are also a priority The Career & Technical Education Cosmetology classrooms are being renovated to better reflect current industry standards, providing students with
an updated, professional environment that mirrors real-world salon settings These improvements support hands-on instruction and help ensure students are training with equipment and layouts aligned with workforce expectations The new design was developed with active input from both students and staff and will provide an inviting, professional setting for students to learn and deliver services to the public through their Class Act Salon
“Investing in our facilities is an investment in our students,” said Susan A Schmidt, Deputy Superintendent & COO of Sullivan BOCES “By planning strategically and updating classrooms to reflect modern industry standards, we ensure students have safe, functional, and professional environments where they can learn the skills needed for today’s careers ”
Through these focused upgrades, BOCES remains committed to creating spaces that are safe, functional, and reflective of the high-quality educational experiences offered to our students THE EDGE | PAGE 14
