The West Islip Union Free School District has been named a recipient of the New York State School Boards Association’s prestigious Champion of Change Recognition, an honor that highlights exceptional school district and BOCES programs making positive, meaningful impacts on students, schools and communities across New York State.
The Champion of Change Recognition is determined through observations by the NYSSBA award committee, along with input from association members. Potential recipients are identified based on innovative practices and impactful initiatives, and the committee then votes to recognize the most outstanding programs statewide.
The district was honored for its U.S. Navy Manufacturing Partnership, an innovative initiative that provides students with hands-on, career-connected learning experiences while strengthening pathways to high-demand careers in manufacturing, engineering and technology. The partnership connects classroom instruction with real-world applications, helping students build technical skills, problem-solving abilities and career readiness.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Paul Romanelli praised the recognition and the collaborative efforts behind the program. “Being named a NYSSBA Champion of Change is a tremendous honor for our district,” he said.  “Our U.S. Navy partnership reflects our commitment to preparing students for the future through meaningful, real-world learning experiences. This recognition affirms the hard work of our educators, students and community partners, and highlights the power of collaboration in creating opportunities that truly change lives.”