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Ulster BOCES
Dear New York Education Community, New York has long been a beacon of innovation and excellence in public education, but now we find ourselves at a unique moment—a turning point where the future demands something greater from us all. As we prepare our students not just for the world as it is, but as it could be, we must be courageous in imagining an education system that centers the human experience. NY Inspires is more than a framework; it’s an invitation: an invitation to design boldly, to listen deeply, and to recognize the brilliance that already lives within our schools, our classrooms, and—most importantly—within each and every student. This Playbook represents our collective response to the call for transformation. Grounded in the Blue Ribbon Commission’s vision and shaped by the voices of thousands of stakeholders—students, families, educators, and communities—it is a roadmap to reimagining what a diploma means, what readiness looks like, and what our schools can become. It challenges us to hold fast to what works, to release what no longer serves, and to design anew with equity, justice, and joy at the center. At its heart, this is about people. It’s about the young people who walk through our doors every day, bringing with them rich histories, diverse identities, and limitless potential. It is about creating the conditions for them to thrive—not only to be prepared for the future, but to shape it. We envision a New York where every learner, regardless of their story, race, socioeconomic status, gender, identity, ability, or disability, is seen, valued, and given access to meaningful pathways that lead to vibrant, connected lives. We believe that with the right supports, every student can become an architect of a just and beautiful world. To realize that vision, we must ensure every graduate embodies the knowledge, skills, and mindsets outlined in our Portrait of a Graduate— competencies like critical thinking, collaboration, innovation, global citizenship, and cultural competence. But these are not abstract ideals. They are the foundation for purposeful lives. Our students deserve—and our communities require—learning experiences that connect to real passions, lead to sustainable careers, and open doors to homeownership, entrepreneurship, and economic mobility. When students are empowered to do meaningful work that matters to them and contributes to society, they don’t just get ready for the future—they create it. As you engage with this Playbook, we invite you to lead with heart, to co-design with students and communities, and to see this moment not as an obligation, but as an opportunity. Together, let us build the system our learners deserve—a system that reflects the best of who we are and the full promise of who we can become.
With commitment and hope, Dr. Jonah Schenker DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT
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