The School of Education Cohosts Proposed Transformations in Graduation Forum

Should the credits required for graduation be redefined to focus on student proficiency? The answer to this question and more were explored during the Proposed Transformations in Graduation Forum cohosted by The School of Education at St. John’s University and the New York State Blue Ribbon Commission on Graduation Measures on October 17.

“St. John’s University has long been a leader in education in the New York City metropolitan area,” said James D. Wolfinger, Ph.D., Dean, The School of Education. “It was an honor to have the New York State Blue Ribbon panel select us to host their listening tour about new graduation requirements for students in the state of New York.”

He continued, “This was not just an informative session, but a catalyst for future conversations. Events of this nature foster partnerships and engagement, and its impact on our higher education institution and community cannot be overstated.”

Faculty and administrators from The School of Education engaged in discussions with Blue Ribbon Commission members Lorna R. Lewis, Ed.D., Superintendent, Malverne Union Free School District; Kelly Whitney Rivera, Director of Guidance and Chief Information Officer, Valley Stream Central High School District; and Angela Marshall, Public Information Officer, Nassau BOCES.

“Thanks to the New York State Education Department, Dr. Lewis, and her colleagues, we hosted a productive forum on graduation measures, encouraging meaningful discussions across St. John’s educator and leadership preparation programs regarding New York State’s graduation criteria,” said Catherine C. DiMartino, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Administrative and Instructional Leadership.

Smita Guha, Ph.D., Chair and Professor, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, added, “It is the role of teacher educators to problem solve for the benefit of our students, overcome challenges, and create opportunities to prepare our students to be leaders and global citizens.”