BOCES leaders, board members and education partners from across New York convened Thursday, Oct. 22, at the Hyatt Regency Buffalo during the New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA) Annual Convention for the BOCES Educational Consortia (BEC) meeting. Led by Lauren J. Gemmill, District Superintendent and CEO of Capital Region BOCES, and Michael Capuana, District Superintendent and CEO of Erie 1 BOCES, the gathering focused on advocacy achievements, legislative priorities and emerging issues affecting schools statewide.
Julie Marlette of Hinman Straub provided a legislative update and facilitated discussion on priorities for 2026 and beyond, including workforce shortages, school funding, lease flexibility, purchasing efficiencies, the transition to zero-emission school buses, expanded support for students receiving special education services through age 22, and teacher recruitment and retention.
Attendees also reflected on a year of advocacy successes, highlighting progress made through collaboration with education organizations and state leaders. These efforts helped advance BOCES priorities and strengthen the organization’s voice in statewide policy discussions.
A panel discussion featuring representatives from NYSSBA, NYSCOSS, ASBO and Hinman Straub explored the evolving legislative landscape and issues likely to shape advocacy efforts in 2027, including school aid, workforce development, special education funding, artificial intelligence and student screen time.
The meeting concluded with renewed momentum for the year ahead and a shared commitment to working collaboratively to address the challenges and opportunities facing New York’s schools and students.
