2024 Winter Conference

This year’s theme, “Building a Bridge Over Troubled Water: Making the Most of a Good Crisis,” will guide our discussions and sessions, focusing on turning challenges into opportunities for rural schools. 

Rural education administrators are at the heart of transforming educational landscapes in small communities, turning challenges into triumphs with creativity and resilience. Their work is a testament to the profound impact that dedicated leadership can have on student success and community development.

By championing innovative solutions, fostering strong relationships, and leveraging limited resources effectively, these administrators create vibrant learning environments that empower students and inspire educators. Embracing their role as catalysts for positive change, they are not just managing schools—they are building bridges to brighter futures. 

The RSA Winter Conference is a celebration of this remarkable work, offering an opportunity to amplify their achievements and share success stories, while also recognizing rural education’s unique challenges. By participating in keynotes, panel discussions, and presentations, attendees will not only enhance their knowledge and skills, but also contribute to shaping the future of rural education.

Wednesday, December 4
12:00 – 5:15 PM

11:30 AM  Registration Open

1:00 PM – 1:15 PM Regent Catania to open event and Presentation Leader of the Year Award to Education Commissioner Rosa

1:15 PM – 2:00 PM New York State Commissioner of Education Rosa and her leadership team to present and discuss changes in graduation requirements, graduation pathways, regionalism and other issues facing districts this year.

2:00- 2:30 PM Break with refreshments

2:30 – 3:30 PM Rockefeller Institute President Robert Megna and Education Policy Director Dr. Brian Backstrom presenting the recommendations contained in their Report to the Governor and Legislature on Foundation Aid Reform.

3:30 – 4:30 PM Expert Roundtable of Executive Director Brian Chechnicki of the NYS Association of School Business Officials, NYSSBA Governmental Relations Director Brian Fessler NYSCOSS Deputy Director Robert Lowry, moderated by RSA Executive Director Dave Little on the impact of financial and programmatic changes in NYS education this coming year. 

4:30 PM – 5:15 PM Closing Reception

Thursday, December 5
7:30 AM – 4:00 PM

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM Breakfast

8:00 AM Registration open

8:30 AM – 8:50 AM Presentation of James Dawson Lifetime Achievement Award to Chuck Szuberla. 

8:50 AM – 9:50 AM Ferrara Fiorenza
New Negotiations for a New Era: Join legal experts from Ferrara Fiorenza and district leaders to learn a brand new and highly successful way to make negotiations a win for all! Panel: Andy Doell/Jeff Trout/Joe Shields

9:50 AM – 10:15 AM Break

10:15 AM – 11:30 AM Futures Co-Lab: Workshop Presentation by Battelle for Kids. Immersive workshop to provide attendees with the skills and tools they need to manage change, involve their communities and excel in a challenging environment.

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Lunch

12:30 – 1:45 PM The Science of Hope: Presentation by Battelle for Kids
To prepare attendees for the emotional, communication and collaborative needs involved with mass change in education this year.

1:45 PM – 2:15 PM Dessert Break

2:15 PM – 2:45 PM Member District Reports

2:45 – 3:15 PM Presentation of RSA Appreciation Award to Mike Ford/Closing remarks by Mike Ford.

An afternoon break with refreshments will be provided on Wednesday. On Thursday, breakfast and lunch will be served, along with two beverage and snack breaks. Participants are encouraged to explore Saratoga Springs for dinner on both evenings.

Thank you to our 185+ attendees!

For registrants:
The cost of the conference is $295 per registration and is fully BOCES-aidable. 

Billing will be completed through the BOCES Billing Process. A cross-contract will be necessary to complete the registration process.  The WSWHE BOCES will initiate the Cross-Contract once a registration is received. Purchase orders are not required for this registration.

For registration or invoice questions, contact Amanda Bergin: abergin@wshweboces.org

CANCELLATION POLICY

Effective 11/22: We will not be able to offer refunds for any cancellations made after this date. Thank you for your understanding.