About Dutchess BOCES

Dutchess BOCES was organized on May 22, 1957, upon the order of the Commissioner of Education. Through the cooperative efforts of our thirteen component school districts, Dutchess BOCES is able to offer a wide variety of educational programs and support services to children and adults in Dutchess County. We serve a student base of 47,000 pupils. The present operational budget is in excess of $46 million.

Mission

We empower all learners and support school districts by inspiring dynamic educational opportunities, providing comprehensive services and developing partnerships that focus on growth and excellence for all.

Vision

We are a leading hub for premier educational services that inspires innovation, supports diverse needs, and develops partnerships focused on lifelong success for all learners.

Agency Goals

Take a leadership role through robust communication and partnership between and among stakeholders: community partners, component school districts, and the New York State Department of Education (NYSED).
Provide effective support to achieve staff excellence and growth.
Expand and enhance student programming in order to provide future-ready outcomes for all learners.
Prioritize the multi-year investment in "State of the Art" facilities.

Our Core Values

Commitment: We demonstrate unwavering dedication to our mission, goals, and one another, even in the face of challenges.
Integrity: We act with honesty, consistency, and strong moral principles in all that we do.
Open-Mindedness: We embrace diverse perspectives and remain willing to adapt, learn, and grow.
Excellence: We strive for the highest standards in our work, continually improving to achieve exceptional outcomes.
Student Centered: We care deeply about every student’s success and well-being, building relationships rooted in compassion and respect.
Drive, Positive Attitude, and Teamwork: We bring energy, optimism, and a collaborative spirit to our shared pursuit of success.
Innovation: We seek out creative solutions and embrace new ideas to improve learning and leadership.
Trustworthiness: We communicate transparently and act reliably to build strong, trusting relationships.
Collaboration: We value the power of working together throughout our region, recognizing that shared efforts lead to greater impact.
Partnership: We are committed to working collaboratively with others through mutual respect, shared goals, and collective responsibility to achieve meaningful outcomes.

Our Strategic Plan

Dutchess BOCES Blueprint for Excellence 2025-2028 reflects the priorities and aspirations of our Board, Leadership Team, staff, families and community partners.

For more information about Dutchess BOCES

The Area

Dutchess County is located in the scenic Hudson Valley just north of New York City. The Hudson Valley is one of the faster growing business and residential areas of the United States and has a population of over two million. An excellent infrastructure of major highways, rail services and nearby Stewart International Airport provides convenience for travel to New York City and other major destinations. Housing remains affordable.

The county enjoys recreational access to the Hudson River and close proximity to several colleges, museums, shopping centers and varied cultural opportunities. The county of 848 square miles boasts a terrain of rolling hills, streams, forests, orchards and thirty miles of Hudson River coastline.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Dutchess BOCES does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, creed, color, national origin, marital status or disability.

Title IX and 504 Compliance

Dutchess BOCES offers employment and educational opportunities without regard to sex, race, color, national origin or disability. Inquiries regarding this nondiscrimination policy may be directed to Norah Merritt, 845-486-4800 ext. 2278. Information, including complaint procedures, will be provided to any citizen, student or employee who feels that his or her rights under Title IX or Section 504 may have been violated by the BOCES or its officials

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