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Board finds Randolph School "substantially equivalent" after Dutchess BOCES Pathway 7 review despite board objections
Summary
The board voted 6–3 to determine that the Randolph School met New York education standards for substantial equivalency based on a Dutchess BOCES Pathway 7 local review; several trustees objected to the district's role in evaluating private/parochial schools.
The Wappingers Central School District Board of Education voted 6–3 on Aug. 13 to determine that the Randolph School met New York State requirements for “substantial equivalency” after a Pathway 7 local review conducted by Dutchess BOCES.
The resolution cites Dutchess BOCES’ substantial‑equivalency report dated May 8, 2025, and states the district will notify the Randolph School administrator, the superintendents of districts with resident students, and the State Education Department in the manner prescribed by regulation within 30 days.
Several trustees expressed discomfort with the state requirement that local public districts evaluate private and parochial schools. Superintendent Dr. Bonk said he “did not believe it’s the responsibility of our school district to evaluate a public or a private school within our district,” but acknowledged the state education department requires the district to act. Trustee Morgan and Trustee Capilari raised similar concerns about the appropriateness of the district performing such evaluations.
District staff said the decision to retain Dutchess BOCES was intended to provide an independent, third‑party review: “Under the direction of Dr. Bonk, we decided that it would be more appropriate to have Dutchess BOCES conduct the review, as an independent evaluator,” said Dr. Cardwell, describing the Pathway 7 local review process as a rubric‑based site review with multiple visits.
Trustees voting in favor were McFarlane, Kellen, Meggitt, Marie Johnson, Odom and Mondesando. Trustees Capilari, Morgan and Lumia voted against the resolution. The motion passed.
The board’s resolution references Part 130 of the Commissioner of Education’s regulations (substantial equivalency requirements) and incorporates Dutchess BOCES’ findings by reference. If the board had not adopted the resolution, speakers advised the school would be deemed not substantially equivalent and further steps would follow with the State Education Department.
The board’s action directs district staff to complete the required notifications to the school, resident districts and NYSED in the form and manner prescribed by regulation.
