Ulster BOCES is a catalyst for collaboration on a local, regional, and statewide level.Fostered through the leadership of Central Administration, dozens of partnerships exist that illustrate the results that can be achieved when people and agencies work together for a common goal.

Locally, Ulster BOCES engages component school leaders in well-attended monthly gatherings designed to create discussion and generate understanding of common educational issues. Ulster BOCES coordinates and facilitates separate opportunities for superintendents, business officials, instructional administrators, and principals to share experiences, strategies, and solutions about relevant issues. Ulster BOCES leaders are valuable resources for local school leaders to obtain and understand directives from the New York State Education Department.

Ulster BOCES works closely with neighboring BOCES from the Mid-Hudson Valley. This four-county cadre, called the Joint Management Team (JMT) of Dutchess, Orange, Sullivan, and Ulster BOCES, has taken the premise of collaboration beyond the boundaries of the component schools into an effective regional collaboration. The replication of the traditional BOCES model into a regional force has created increased opportunities for students to achieve. Regional collaboration has provided opportunities for cost-effective delivery of exceptional professional development programs featuring nationally-recognized experts in education. Substantial grant funding for unique student learning experiences has also been secured through this successful regional effort. The JMT leaders will continue to explore further opportunities where collaboration is possible.

Ulster BOCES has been an active participant in advancing educational understanding and opportunities on a statewide level.Ulster BOCES leaders are called upon to share their experience and advice with education majors at the State University at New Paltz, as well as with new district superintendents throughout New York State. Ulster BOCES has been very active in ensuring that an understanding of the BOCES model exists statewide through its participation in the BOCES of New York State group and in participating in the organization of a successful BOCES Lobby Day at the State Capitol.