by Dr. Gladys I. Cruz
District Superintendent, Questar III BOCES
In November, the New York State Education Department presented NY Inspires, its plan to transform public education across the state over the next five years. This initiative, designed to promote greater equity within the education system, was informed by extensive stakeholder engagement over the past five years, including in-person and online sessions, some which were facilitated locally by Questar III BOCES. Thank you to those who provided feedback.
The proposed transformations – which align with recommendations from the Blue Ribbon Commission on Graduation Measures – include some of the most significant changes in public education in the state in more than 150 years. Key elements of the state’s plan include:
- Implementation of Four Transformations: This includes adopting the New York State Portrait of a Graduate, redefining credits to focus on proficiency, decoupling Regents assessment from graduation requirements, and moving to one diploma. The New York State Portrait of a Graduate would require students to demonstrate proficiency in seven essential areas: critical thinking, effective communication, cultural and social-emotional competences, innovative problem solving, literacy across content areas, and global citizenry.
- Phased Approach: The plan features a structured timeline consisting of a planning year followed by three distinct phases for implementation. The image below shows the changes that will be implemented over the next five years.
- Enhanced Stakeholder Engagement: The state is committed to incorporating additional opportunities for stakeholder feedback throughout the process.
- Focus on Planning and Professional Development: The plan allocates time for thorough planning, professional learning opportunities, and clear communication among all participants.
Ninth graders who begin high school in the fall of 2027 would be the first cohort not required to pass Regents Exams to earn a high school diploma although these exams would continue to be offered in math, English, and science to comply with federal testing requirements. These students would have additional pathways to graduation, including internships, work-based learning, capstone projects or community service. The state expects the new graduation measures to be fully phased-in by the 2029-30 school year.
The state also proposes to add new required courses in the 2026-27 school year, including financial literacy.
Ultimately, the State Board of Regents must approve any changes to the state’s graduation requirements. Questar III will continue to provide our school districts with leadership and professional development support as these changes will have far-reaching implications for our students, teachers, and collaborative work moving forward.
Please visit www.nysed.gov/grad-measures to learn more.
This column will appear in the Register Star and The Daily Mail newspapers.
