What is BOCES?

In 1948 the New York State Legislature authorized the creation of Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) with the establishment of "Intermediate School Districts." The BOCES were actually formed to serve as interim agencies, but the ultimate suc- cess of the cooperative service movement for the next 24 years led to a change in the Intermediate School Act in 1972. That change institutionalized Boards of Cooperative Educational Services and eliminated the previous legislative references to Intermediate School Districts in the State of New York.

Ulster County BOCES was established on May 26, 1949. In 1953, there were 51 BOCES in existence based on geography and population distribution. By 1958, this number had grown to 82 BOCES. Over the years, the number has declined as Commissioners have ordered mergers of supervisory districts. Currently, 37 BOCES serve New York State schools.

In 1955, BOCES were authorized to rent facilities, allowing the establishment of specific sites for occupational education programs. In addition, Union Free Districts were allowed to join BOCES, and all component districts were required to bear the administrative costs.

Another important change in legislation occurred in 1967 when BOCES were permitted to acquire real property. This change also authorized the establishment of contracts to utilize Dormitory Authority funds for construction of facilities. As a result, many BOCES centers for occupational education and special education became realities.

Today's BOCES have grown from the birth of the cooperative services concept in 1948 to the present through an evolutionary process combining the success of BOCES services with appropriate changes in legislation. The BOCES of New York State have become true educational service agencies serving local school districts, the community, and the State Education Department.