NY State Commissioner of Education Visits Niskayuna High School
(Be on the lookout for an updated article on the Commissioner, which will hopefully include an interview with the Commissioner and insight into potential future education policies)
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By: Maddy Ehrlich
On May 22nd, the New York State Commissioner of Education and President of the University of the State of New York, Dr. Betty A. Rosa, visited Niskayuna High School. Joined by her Director of Communications, JP O’Hare, Assistant Commissioner, David M. Frank, as well as other senior members of her staff, the Commissioner explored Niskayuna High School, learning about the school and its students.
As the NY State Commissioner of Education, Dr. Rosa makes decisions for all the education facilities in NY State, which includes more than 700 school districts. Niskayuna High School is just one of the many campuses that are impacted by the Commissioner's policies. Her decisions include investment in school programs, school discipline, transportation, and other important parts of education.
When she visited, Dr. Rosa was escorted through the school, walking the halls alongside the students her policies directly impact. Throughout the day, she had the opportunity to speak with administration and students. She was accompanied by the High School’s Principal John Rickert, Niskayuna Superintendent Carl Mummenthey, Niskayuna District Chief Equity Officer Latisha Barnett, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum Jessica Moore, Capital Region BOCES Superintendent Lauren Gemmill, and other Niskayuna leaders.
Alongside three board of education student representatives, Hannah Ackerman, Noah Martinez, and Arjun Rangarajan, and Class of 2025 President, Caleb Coppola, I had an opportunity to briefly meet and speak with the Commissioner and her staff. Gathering the students and adults together in old cafe, a human aspect was added to the Commissioner’s visit, allowing Dr. Rosa to speak with the actual benefactors of her initiatives.
Many moving parts contribute to the NY state education system. One part of the process is JP O’Hare’s role as Director of Communications. He works directly with journalists to share news about the Commissioner's policies. These can be large and small newspapers, enabling multiple reporters to gain important knowledge about education initiatives. His work is an important link to the public. Through setting up interviews for Dr. Rosa, and consulting with her on policies, JP O’Hare is one of the many people who work behind the scenes to implement school programs.
With an increasing number of federal government executive orders, topics such as DEI and others are at the forefront of national debate. Despite these new restrictions, NY state has continued to be strong in their policies, and commitment to state education goals. In her February 25th New York State hearing, Dr. Rosa emphasized her dedication to equity and opportunity for all students.
Legislation such as the NY state phone ban decided upon by Governor Hochul demonstrates that although the federal government impacts state education, they do not have complete control. Education decisions consist of state and federal actions; for example, while Governor Hochul declared the phone ban, earlier in the year Dr. Rosa made the statement that a “one-size-fits-all approach” may not be the best path forward in regards to phone policy. The varying viewpoints in the NY state education system is vital in gaining diverse perspectives and ideas. While federal government orders have an impact on education, NY state education leaders, such as Dr. Rosa, have an integral role in deciding on state education.
As stated in Dr. Rosa’s Written Testimony for the New York State Education Department Joint Legislative Budget Hearing on February 25, 2025, some of her main goals are promoting dual enrollment programs, which would allow more students access to college programs, and enhanced support for students with disabilities for postsecondary work. As the school year comes to an end, students look forward to seeing these new initiatives and their impact.
Education is a key component to building the future and student success. During a time in which education is being redefined by the government, technology and an ever changing world, it is important to understand that there are humans behind the decisions. Hosting the NY State Education Commissioner at Niskayuna High School was a wonderful opportunity for the future generation of world leaders to meet with the people who are helping pave the path to their future.
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