In this episode of Portrait of a Leader, we gather a powerful roundtable of educational changemakers to explore how leadership can transcend traditional constraints by integrating heartset into decision-making. Whether guiding students or supporting educators, leaders are discovering that learning is a natural gift—rooted in play, mastery, and passion—that can ignite transformative change.
We challenge the outdated mindsets reflected in report card comments like “socializes too much” or “struggles to stay on task.” With support and direction, these very behaviors—building community, collaborating, and exploring—are the keys to reimagining education.
Join us as we unpack how leaders can foster deeper learning and embrace project-based approaches to revolutionize a system that has remained static for decades. Leadership is the foundation for this bold new vision—tune in to discover ways that you can be a part of the shift!
Featuring:
Dr. Jill Berardi, Assistant Superintendent for Learning & Design - Center for Innovative Teaching & Learning Program at Ulster BOCES

Sarah Dudley-Lemek, Assistant Superintendent for Learning & Design - Educator Edge at Ulster BOCES

Peter Harris, Assistant Superintendent for Learning & Design - Career Pathways Program at Ulster BOCES

In this first episode of the Leading for Deeper Learning with Ulster BOCES, Dr. Jeffrey Matteson, Senior Deputy Commissioner for Education Policy for New York State, joined Dr. Jonah Schenker, District Superintendent at Ulster BOCES, to discuss the latest educational changes being rolled out in response to the Graduation Measures recommendations from the New York State Blue Ribbon Commission and other timely topics. Dr. Schenker and Dr. Matteson dive into the evolving landscape of education, focusing on upcoming changes in the State's graduation requirements and exploring innovative approaches to expanding opportunities for all students to find success. Recorded in the historic New York State Education Building in Albany, this conversation is both timely and essential as we rethink the future of education in New York.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Launch
00:33 Today's Agenda and Key Topics
08:07 Transforming the Classroom Experience
11:10 Future Vision for Education
22:34 Ensuring Quality and Equity
30:50 Regionalization Initiative
38:35 Statewide Longitudinal Data System
43:25 College and High School Experience
51:24 Conclusion and Future Podcast Topics

LEADING FOR DEEPER LEARNING with ULSTER BOCES is a podcast where shared stories serve as the roadmap for navigating changes in education. The series is hosted by Dr. Jonah Schenker, District Superintendent of Ulster Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) in New York State, featuring conversations with educational leaders, educators, and thought partners. Dr. Schenker and his guests explore key questions, share stories, and elevate student and educator voices to guide the journey from the current state of education to the future being built. Listeners will enjoy the insights and first-hand accounts of how educators are working ro reshape tomorrow’s educational landscape.

To learn more about Ulster BOCES visit https://www.ulsterboces.org/