The New York State Education Department presented 12 recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Commission on Graduation Measures to the Board of Regents recently, that have a with a focus on providing multiple pathways to graduation, flexibility in assessing students, broadening access to career and technical education to every student, ensuring culturally-responsive teacher preparation and professional development, and updating learning standards to better align with college and career expectations, emphasizing higher-order skills.
Many of these recommendations, according to Rinaldo, align nicely with the mission and expertise of DCMO BOCES. Rinaldo said in particular the commission recommends that career and technical education (CTE) be available to every student, including internships, mentorships and work-based learning opportunities.
DCMO BOCES currently offers 14 different CTE programs on two campuses to students from 16 component school districts. Director of Instructional Services Ginger Rinaldo said the mentorship program has been highly successful in connecting students with business and industry, and is helping align programs with career expectations.
The Board of Regents will consider the recommendations, including updates to New York State Learning Standards, with implementation by the State Education Department beginning later in the spring. DCMO BOCES will likely play a critical role in that transition, according to Rinaldo.
For more information about the Blue Ribbon Commmission on Graduation Measures, visit www.nysed.gov/grad-measures/nys-blue-ribbon-commission-graduation-measures
For more information about the educational programs and services offered by DCMO BOCES, visit www.dcmoboces.com
