In this inspiring episode of Leading for Deeper Learning, Dr. Jonah Schenker sits down with three remarkable students—Olivia Butler, Matthew Parkhurst, and Jada Valles—from Ulster BOCES to explore what truly motivates them and how student voice shapes meaningful learning. Recorded at the Q29 Studio, this conversation dives into the power of purpose, the importance of being heard, and the impact of deeper learning experiences that are co-created with students at the center.

From personal reflections to powerful insights, Olivia, Matthew, and Jada share their “why”—what drives them, what they value in education, and how having a voice has changed the way they learn and lead. This episode is a must-listen for educators, leaders, and anyone passionate about student-centered education and authentic engagement.

In this special episode, Dr. Jonah Schenker, District Superintendent of Ulster BOCES, sits down with two of New York State’s leading voices in education policy—Deputy Commissioners Angelique Johnson-Dingle and Jason Harmon of the New York State Education Department. Recorded on location in the historic Medical Library of the NYSED Building in Albany, this powerful and candid conversation explores the New York Inspires initiatives and the bold reimagining of the state’s Portrait of a Graduate.

This isn’t a small movement—it’s a pivotal moment. The Graduation Measures initiative signals more than a shift in assessment; it’s a call to fundamentally change the container in which education is taught. Johnson-Dingle and Harmon share why now is the right time for these changes, what they mean for students and communities, and how New York is working to align its educational vision with the needs of today and tomorrow.

Tune in now for a unique, behind-the-scenes perspective on how education leaders are working with the NYS Education Department to empower students to be the architects of their own future.

How can leaders in non-student-facing roles cultivate a strong leadership culture while keeping students at the center?

In this episode of Leading for Deeper Learning, host Dr. Jonah Schenker, District Superintendent of Ulster BOCES, explores this critical question, as well as dives into how to cultivate the conditions needed for dreaming and designing a new future for education. The discussion highlights how Educator Edge supports teachers beyond traditional models to include the integration of culture-building with instruction—ensuring that joy, learning, and student voice remain at the heart of education.
The conversation also highlights the role of the Instructional Services team at Educator Edge in designing meaningful professional development experiences that empower educators and foster a culture where deeper learning thrives. Through CREW structures–which center on the power of relationships–and deeper learning practices, Ulster BOCES professional learning offerings help schools foster an environment where educators feel supported, students are heard, and teaching is infused with joy, purpose, and possibility.

Featuring:
Sarah Dudley Lemek - Assistant Superintendent for Learning & Design - Educator Edge
Dr. Juli Ross-Kleinman and Yaa-Yaa Whaley-Williams, both Supervisors of Instructional Services at Educator Edge