On October 5, Marlboro Central School District Superintendent Michael Rydell and Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction Jessica Torok visited Marlboro’s schools to meet with faculty and begin an important districtwide conversation about the future of teaching and learning.
The faculty meetings focused on NY Inspires, New York State’s work to transform graduation requirements and rethink how students demonstrate their readiness for college, career, and life. The presentations provided staff with an overview of what is changing, what is still being developed, and some of the common misconceptions surrounding the state’s evolving graduation framework.
One key message was clear: Marlboro is not redesigning the educational experience overnight. The 2026-27 school year is being used as a year of planning, listening, taking stock of our K–12 assessment practices, and capacity building as the district develops a collective understanding of the state’s direction and thoughtfully considers what it means for Marlboro students and staff.
The presentation also introduced Duke Inspires, Marlboro’s local journey to build on the district’s existing strengths while shaping a shared K–12 vision for teaching and learning. This work connects NY Inspires and the state’s Portrait of a Graduate with the competencies already reflected in Marlboro’s Dedicated Duke framework, including being effective communicators, innovative problem solvers, critical thinkers, globally minded citizens, and socially and culturally competent individuals.
Rather than beginning with a predetermined plan, the district is taking a collaborative approach. Throughout the 2026-27 school year, Marlboro will gather input from students, staff, families, community members, and alumni to help shape the district’s emerging vision for teaching and learning and inform the work ahead together.
The October 5 faculty meetings marked an important first step in that process by establishing a shared understanding and common language around NY Inspires and Duke Inspires. [ The chart below depicts a timeline for the NY Inspires transition at Marlboro.]
As Superintendent Rydell and Assistant Superintendent Torok emphasized, the goal is to be ready, not reactive. Through continued collaboration and input from the Marlboro community, the district is preparing thoughtfully for what’s next while building on the strengths that already make the K-12 Duke experience unique.
