NYSED briefs Brentwood UFSD on Blue Ribbon, INSPIRES pilot; board recesses to executive session

Dr. Vincent Leone, director of programs and policy for Blue Ribbon Schools at the New York State Education Department, told the Brentwood Union Free School District board that the district’s emphasis on equity, English‑learner supports and community engagement positions it well to pursue national Blue Ribbon recognition and to participate in the state’s INSPIRES/Graduation Plus pilot.

Leone outlined the Blue Ribbon nomination process and eligibility rules used by the U.S. Department of Education, noting that public schools must have been in operation at least five years, meet state accountability standards and meet federal guidelines such as high test‑participation thresholds. He said the federal program also requires that at least one‑third of a state’s nominees include schools where 40% or more of students are economically disadvantaged, a measure meant to ensure equity in recognition.

“Brentwood High School…