Superintendent Michael Rydell updated the Board of Education on the Blue Ribbon Commission, an initiative launched by the New York State Education Department to evaluate current educational practices and recommend impactful changes.

“The vision is for all students to graduate with one diploma but with multiple pathways to achieve it,” Rydell said. He explained this approach contrasts with the current system, where all students must meet standard requirements to earn a diploma.

The commission is examining the existing diploma format, cultural competency in education, and how to prepare students for “meaningful life success.” Rydell said the commission envisions a single diploma that integrates Seals and Endorsements earned by students during high school.

Currently, New York offers three types of diplomas—Local, Regents, and Regents with Advanced Distinction—as well as two state-endorsed seals: the Seal of Civic Readiness and the Seal of Biliteracy. Marlboro High School is exploring locally endorsed seals to further recognize student achievement.

“This effort is separate from the Blue Ribbon Commission’s work,” Rydell said. “But it aims to motivate students to exceed minimum requirements and enhance their competitiveness for college or career opportunities.”

The commission has proposed changes to high school credit requirements, emphasizing areas such as civic responsibility, cultural competency, financial literacy, STEM, fine and performing arts, and real-world writing literacy. The recommendations also stress career and college readiness, suggesting increased exposure to career and technical education (CTE), internships, and work-based learning.

Additionally, the commission advocates for expanding elective options and offering students more flexibility in meeting graduation requirements.

To illustrate its goals, the commission developed a “Portrait of a Graduate,” a framework emphasizing critical thinking, innovative problem-solving, cultural competency, and effective communication. Rydell acknowledged the framework’s importance but stressed that tangible actions are necessary to achieve these ideals.

In alignment with the commission’s vision, Marlboro’s building teams will soon present action plans reflecting the Board of Education’s goals. Rydell noted these goals align closely with the commission’s recommendations.

The Blue Ribbon Commission’s timeline includes a planning phase through summer 2025, followed by Phase I (2025–2027) and Phase II (2027–2029). Phase III, scheduled for fall 2029, involves full implementation, including updated transcripts, new assessments, and proficiency-based standards.

Rydell cautioned that any changes must accommodate New York’s diverse school districts. “This initiative needs to be flexible and generic enough to apply to communities with varying resources and opportunities,” he said. He added that Regents exams may no longer be tied to graduation requirements under the proposed system, though no final decisions have been made by the state Board of Regents.

The new diploma requirements are expected to impact students entering ninth grade in 2024. For current 10th graders and older cohorts, graduation criteria will remain unchanged unless further revisions occur.

Rydell highlighted ongoing district initiatives aligning with the commission’s mission. These include expanding electives, launching a work-based learning program, increasing career and college preparation activities, and encouraging community service. Additional efforts include promoting student leadership, advancing the student voice committee, and fostering authentic, student-centered learning experiences.

The district is committed to equipping students with the skills needed for success in an evolving world, Rydell said.